Cristobal Balenciaga (Spanish, 1895–1972)
Silk, beads, rhinestones
L. at center front: 52 in. (132.1 cm); L. at center back: 48 in. (121.9 cm); waist: 22 in. (55.9 cm); W. at back: 42 in. (106.8 cm)
Gift of Mrs. Byron C. Foy, 1953 (C.I.53.40.10a-d)
This evening dress (a) of white satin embroidered with gold and silver braid, silver beads, and rhinestones, has a huge bronze taffeta sash (b) over the hips and a bow in back forming a slight train. The long matching gloves (c, d) are made of bronze taffeta.
The dress is a strapless sheath with allover embroidery executed in a medallion pattern surrounded by a leafy scroll motif. The top and hem have a wide border of encrusted beads on a lamé ground. The boned bodice, lined with white silk, is seamed to the slim skirt at the waist. The sash has a large bow with fringed streamers, creating the effect of a bustle. The gloves of above-elbow length, with ten buttons, complete the ensemble.
The dress is a couture copy of model 52 from the fall/winter 1950 runway show that was featured in Harper's Bazaar magazine (November 1950, p. 120).
Related
Index Terms
Artist
- Balenciaga, Cristobal (French, born Spain, 1895–1972)
