SOLD. A rare Fortuny stenciled silk velvet tunic from the 1920's. It was made in the famous Venice workshop of Mariano Fortuny y Madraz. Fortuny was a visionary and true Renaissance man of incredible talent. Born in Granada, Spain to a family of renowned artists, he was destined to become a painter. He was also a sculptor, photographer, inventor, set designer and architect. Fortuny would fully flower with his inventive techniques with fabric and couture. He invented the Delphos dress which was ground-breaking in the fashion of his time. His designs were worn by trend-setters in society, the arts and fashion like Isadora Duncan, Lillian Gish and Peggy Guggenheim. Fortuny was deeply inspired by the magnificent setting of Venice. But his designs were also influenced by classical Greek, Moorish, and Persian art and culture.
This tunic is a most gorgeous rich shade of blue silk velvet achieved through hand-dyeing with Fortuny's own unique dyes. After dyeing the velvet is then hand-stenciled with gold and silver pigments which were hand-made and applied painstakingly in many layers to achieve the shading and depth of fresco painting. The designs placed on both front and back are Renaissance in inspiration. The neck has a laced opening with a twisted silk cord. The shape is classic. It is belted. The lining is original and the label pictured was hand-made by Fortuny who liked to sign his pieces much the way an artist signed his paintings.
Fortuny's creations are very rare and highly collectible. This one was lovingly cared for. It is in very good to excellent condition.
Length 40", Bust 42", Hip 44", Sleeve 23"
Period: 1920's
Price Upon Request
