Circa 1930-1935

Paris

Stunning opera or evening coat in black silk velvet embroidered with roses from the famous House of Worth, numbered 32812 (?), from the period when Jean-Charles Worth was at the helm. With a loose fit, long batwing sleeves, and a high Russian-style collar, this winter coat is fully quilted, with its original lining intact and undamaged, in cream Duchesse silk satin marked with the century-old Worth label (cream damask silk satin with J. Worth lettering). A single button at the front allows the coat to be crossed over, giving it a ball shape, accentuated by the folded collar in silk satin pleated with matching cords, with a similar detail at the cuffs. Remarkable black silk velvet brocade with a reserve of blooming roses on a satin background, a nod to Paul Poiret and Paul Iribe's rose, which was still in fashion! Strangely, there are no flaws, as this coat has been worn little or not at all. No holes or stains. Exceptional color and condition. For collecting or wearing.

Dimensions: Equivalent to French size 40-42. Height 51 inches, shoulders 19 inches, chest 40 inches, hips 71 inches, sleeves 23 inches, collar height 6 inches, bottom of coat 74 inches.

Jean-Philippe Worth (1856-1926) was the son of Charles Frederick Worth, pioneer of French haute couture and founder of the famous century-old fashion house that operated from 1858 to 1954. After studying for several months under painter Camille Corot, who instilled in him a certain artistic sensibility, Jean-Philippe Worth joined the Worth fashion house in 1872. Jean Philippe took over his father's business in 1895, bringing the famous brand to its zenith during the Belle Epoque. He was succeeded by Jean-Charles Worth, who designed this dress around 1923. Worth's dresses were known as the most inventive and richly embroidered in the world. In 1901, he hired Paul Poiret as a designer to create simpler lines. In 1910, Jean-Philippe's nephews took on a more prominent role in the management of the business. Jean-Charles Worth, Gaston's son, became artistic director. Jean-Philippe Worth retired to Switzerland, where around 1896-1898 he had built Villa Les Bleuets, also known as Château Promenthoux, a sumptuous residence on the shores of Lake Geneva, in what is now the commune of Prangins. A true family saga!