#2356 $2,900 Sold
Morin-Blossier ball gown, c.1894
The Galliera Museum of Paris is one of the greatest authorities on 19th century haute couture. With its presentation "100 Years of Parisian Costume, 1800-1900," the Museum made a dramatic debut in the world of costume during the Paris International Exposition of 1937.
In a review of the major names of 19th century French couture, the Museum lists six couture houses worthy of the pantheon. The house of Morin-Blossier was one of the six great names.
According to an important collector/lecturer, "Morin-Blossier was a great favorite of royalty; by the 1890s, much more so than Worth." This was also the view of collectors. While Worth gowns are impressive, the House of Worth was more prolific in its output. It is a rare opportunity for a collector to find a great Morin-Blossier. I have had only one other.
The two-piece gown, fashioned from sophisticated pewter-colored satin, is embellished with large black chiffon balloon sleeves and beaded fringe of French-jet and mercury glass.
The neckline is veiled with black chiffon. The boned bodice closes in back with hooks. The skirt features a pleated back train. Both pieces are lined with matching pewter taffeta. The magnificent ball gown has a naturalness and simplicity, yet an impressive grandeur, that confirms the renown of its creator.
To understand the high repute in which Morin-Blossier stood at the end of the 19th century, consider this comment from The Woman's World (1888,vol. 1), edited by Oscar Wilde: "The Maison Morin-Blossier has excelled itself lately in turning out delicate creations."
The label reads "Morin-Blossier/15 Rue Daunou/Paris."
The condition is very good to excellent. The gown is structurally sound with no underarm damage. There are marks left on the satin from the beads. (This is reflected in the price.)
The marks show only when seen up close, but the gown displays beautifully as is. The missing back bodice laces are easy to replace. There are some splits in the taffeta lining, which appears stable. The fabric is not shredding.
The bodice measures: 36" bust, 27" waist, and 15 1/2" from the shoulder to the waist.
The skirt measures: 28" waist and 40" center-front length.
