Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History



  • Evening wrap, 1954–55
    Cristobal Balenciaga (Spanish, 1895–1972)
    Pink silk faille

    Gift of Baroness Philippe de Rothschild, 1973 (1973.21.3)

    Conversant with Spanish ceremonial and vernacular dress as an expression of European regionalism, Balenciaga likewise respected Orientalist effects. The cocoon shape of the back alludes to the way a Japanese woman's outer kimono accommodates over her obi to create an elegant arc. More evidently, in emphasizing the nape of the neck by dropping the bias-rolled collar, he evokes the kimono's band neckline, which dips at the back.

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    Evening wrap, 1954–55
    Cristobal Balenciaga (Spanish, 1895–1972)
    Pink silk faille

    Gift of Baroness Philippe de Rothschild, 1973 (1973.21.3)


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