Two Galanos Evening Dresses, 1984-90

This lot contains two dresses by James Galanos.

James Galanos (1924-2016) was the only son of Greek born parents. In 1944, he became a general assistant at the New York East 49th Street emporium of Hattie Carnegie. Galanos was known for using the finest materials and impeccable construction, often called the ‘American Couturier’. With a career that spanned five decades, he dressed Hollywood stars, royalty, and political figures of the day.

These dresses were purchased from Martha, a specialty shop created by Martha Phillips, with locations in New York, Palm Beach, and Bal Harbor. The customers that frequented Martha were amongst the wealthiest and most socially prominent figures of the day.

THE FIRST
This dress was photographed in 1984 by Victor Skrebenski and illustrated in The Art of Haute Couture, ed. Laura Jacobs (1995), p. 43.

Black silk strapless dress with gathered and ruched torso, two left side seam large black satin bows, two black and clear beaded diagonal stripes wrapping around the body, side slit, and side zipper closure.
Label: Galanos,
Retail Label: Martha

Size Label: Unlabeled

Approximate Measurements:

Chest: 22"

Waist: 23"

Hips: 25"

Length (high shoulder point to hem): 48.5"

THE SECOND
Black chiffon strapless dress with ruched bust, faux pearl covered waist band, draped detailing on the skirt, and center back zipper closure.
Label: Galanos,
Retail Label: Martha

Size Label: Unlabeled

Approximate Measurements:

Chest: 27"

Waist: 23"

Hips: 31"

Length (high shoulder point to hem): 47"

Property from the Estate of Bud and Donna O. Wilkinson

Condition:

THE FIRST
The overall condition is good. There is a small spot on the left side of both bows as well as a loose thread on the left side of the gathered waist. In the lining, there is a faint white spot on the back right side just below the bottom diagonal stripe.

THE SECOND
The overall condition is very good with only minor fraying to the interior of the hem and a few pricked threads along the center front of the chest.

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 [email protected] 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.

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Two Galanos Evening Dresses, 1984-90

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