Huntsman and Sons Tailored Three-Piece Suit, Worn By Rex Harrison, 1984

This custom suit was created for renowned stage actor Rex Harrison in his starring role of the West End production of Aren’t We All? in 1984. Finely made by the London Savile Row tailor Huntsman & Sons (founded in 1849), Harrison was photographed wearing this suit multiple times in the later years of his illustrious career. Rex Harrison’s name is typed on the Huntsman & Sons interior label, a common practice in men’s tailoring.

Men's wool plaid three piece suit with suspenders including a notched lapel jacket with padded shoulders into long two-piece sleeves, side flap pockets, and front button closure; paired with matching vest with waist welt pockets, back waist cinch, and front button closure; and pleated button fly trousers with suspenders.
Label: Huntsman & Sons LTD. / 11. Savile Row / London W1X 2PS / Rex Harrison / 14526/123 CH/RL 26.3.84
Size Label: N/A
Style/Serial No.: 14526/123 CH/RL 26.3.84

Approximate Measurements:
JACKET
Shoulders: 17.5"
Chest: 44"
Waist: 41"
Hips: 42"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 33.5"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 34.5"

VEST
Shoulders: 11"
Chest: 44"
Waist (uncinched): 43"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 27.5"

PANTS
Waist: 36.5"
Hips: 42"
Length (side waist band to hem): 44"
Inseam: 30.75"

Property from the Collection of Susan Gutfreund, New York, New York

Condition:

The overall condition is very good though there is some light discoloring along the back neckline lining and negligible soiling in the lining at the sleeve hems of the jacket. The vest has some light soiling along the back neckline lining and a faint white mark on the back left panel near armhole. The pants have some light soiling along the interior waistband and the elasticized suspenders are beginning to stretch.

Everything is sold 'As Is’. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email us with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Timothy Long

Director, Senior Specialist, Couture & Luxury Accessories

[email protected]312.334.4222

Mr. Long has nearly 20 years of experience as a curator of fashion and decorative arts in museums including the Museum of London, the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and the Chicago History Museum. At Hindman, he works with individual clients, collectors, dealers, and museums to bring to auction collections of couture and luxury accessories. Mr. Long’s recent publications include Charles James: Designer in Detail and a chapter on the same designer in London Couture: British Luxury 1923–1975, both published by V&A Publishing.

Spring Fashion: Centuries of Style

Huntsman and Sons Tailored Three-Piece Suit, Worn By Rex Harrison, 1984

Lot Description

Condition Report

Preview

Auction Contact

Shipping | Pickup