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Formal Ball Gown (robe parée)

Attributed to Marie-Jeanne "Rose" Bertin French

1780s (with later alterations)

Not on view

Showing the refinement of French eighteenth-century court dress, this richly embellished ball gown was a luxury few could afford. The metallic threads, sequins, and glass stones would have sparkled by candlelight. The petticoat, originally worn over a large pannier (but subsequently altered to a slimmer style), increased the volume and weight of the dress and, in combination with the train, made it difficult for the wearer to dance or move freely.

Formal Ball Gown (robe parée), Attributed to Marie-Jeanne "Rose" Bertin (French, 1747–1813), Silk satin, with silk embroidery, appliqués of satin; metallic threads, chenille, sequins, applied glass paste, French — Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Formal Ball Gown (robe parée)

Designer: Attributed to Marie-Jeanne "Rose" Bertin (French, 1747–1813)

Date: 1780s (with later alterations)

Culture: French

Medium: Silk satin, with silk embroidery, appliqués of satin; metallic threads, chenille, sequins, applied glass paste

Dimensions: Height (Including train): 84 5/8 in. (215 cm)
Length (of train): 41 3/4 in. (106 cm)

Classification: Main dress-Womenswear

Credit Line: Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto (925.18.3.A–B)

Accession Number: SL.3.2018.43.1

The Met

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts at The Met

The Met's comprehensive collection of European sculpture and decorative arts reflect the development of a number of art forms in Western European countries from the early fifteenth through the early twentieth century.