Christian Dior Haute Couture Velvet Jacket and Dress, Autumn/Winter 1997

This ensemble is dated fall/winter 1997. It anticipates and closely resembles Galliano’s output for spring/summer 1998, a dramatic presentation in six acts called ‘A Poetic Tribute to the Marchesa Casati.’ This iconic collection was named in honor of the eccentric noblewoman Luisa Casati who ‘aspired to be a living work of art.’ The construction of this ensemble makes it nearly possible, rich with Art Nouveau influences and voluminous gathers, a modern ode to Erté and Poiret.

The twenty-five lots of Dior haute couture in this auction (Lots 46-70) represent the work of nearly every creative director at the House of Dior.

This lot contains one haute couture jacket and dress.

The silk velvet jacket is printed with an Art-Nouveau flora and fauna pattern with flared sleeves and a draped back that sweeps into folds secured at the sides. The floral pattern is further accentuated with a pressed design in the leaves. The bias cut dress is made in green silk with shoulder straps.

Coat
Label: Christian Dior Haute Couture Paris AH97

Size Label: Not sized

Style/Serial No.: 29417

Approximate Measurements:

Shoulders: 37.5"

Chest: 53"

Waist: 50"

Hips: 60"

Length (high shoulder point to hem): 58"

Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 38.5"

Dress
Label: Christian Dior Haute Couture Paris AH97

Size Label: Not sized

Style/Serial No.: 29148

Approximate Measurements:

Shoulders:

Chest: 33"

Waist: 34"

Hips: 35"

Length (high shoulder point to hem): 50.5"

Property from a Private Collection, Arlington, Virginia

This lot is located in Chicago.

Condition:
The overall condition of the jacket is very good with no condition issues. The condition of the skirt is very good with some small spots in the interior lining.

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 [email protected] 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.

Luxe Holiday

Christian Dior Haute Couture Velvet Jacket and Dress, Autumn/Winter 1997

Lot Description

Condition Report

Preview

Auction Contact

Shipping | Pickup