#2125 $1,100
Hand-embroidered silk dress, early 1920s
Chinese hand-embroidered silk shawls, which were very popular with the Western market in the early 20th century, were sometimes incorporated into garments. This graceful ivory silk dress is a fine example of the vogue.
The dress features an asymmetrical design that incorporates the hand-knotted fringe borders of the shawl. The embroidered panels are layered over a matching silk crepe de chine under dress. Other than the exquisite hand embroidery, the only embellishment is the belt of silk petals at the drop waist.
The under dress closes with snaps and hooks in the stepped method popular in the early 1920s: hooks on the center-front opening, hooks at the waist from the center-front to the side, and snaps on the side skirt opening. These closures are hidden under the embroidered panels.
The spellbinding floral motif (5th picture down) with its surreal, Art Nouveau tendrils and leaves has an inexplicable beauty and fascination. Indeed, Art Nouveau took its inspiration from nature and women.
The condition is excellent and wearable.
It measures: 42" bust, 36" drop waist, 48" hip, and 50" from the shoulder to the hem.
