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Formal Ball Gown (robe parée)

Attributed to Marie-Jeanne "Rose" Bertin French

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

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