This cape is utterly amazing and a true work of art. It has a hand stenciled pattern of leaves running through the black silk velvet that gives it the feel of the work that masters like Fortuny and Gallenga were doing at the time. I have actually always wondered about the true origins of this cape - it does have a label but the label is that of a departments store - Dey Borthers and co that originally opened in 1894. I have seen very similar pieces by Gallenga in particular sold but I can find no hidden signatures so it remains a mystery. It is certainly a high quality piece and I would not be surprised to find out it was indeed someone special. 

Luxurious black silk velvet drapes to perfection over you when you slip this wonderful cape on. The base is an inky black and the is covered with a leaf print. This print winds around the lower portion of the cape, around each shoulder and across the back, and then trails down the back on both sides.  Each leaf is a combination of taupe and soft dove grey with a slight metallic feel to it. These almost seem to glow with their own inner light. As the velvet fabric catches the light the colors changes and the leafs take on really wonderful quality. Keeping with this natural feel is an elaborate feather collar that circles the neck. It has dangling ends all the way around that add even more drama to this beautiful piece. Inside the cape is lined in a fine black silk. It has a single, large metal hook to close it at the neck and little velvet loops at each inner edge to slip your hands through if you wish. This is a beautiful example of a 1920s evening cloak. Excellent antique condition with one small note to review below.

Fully lined in a black silk and closes at the neck with a metal hook and eye. In excellent antique condition. I see a small amount of shattering on the upper edge that is totally hidden under the collar - probably from improper hanging. Other then that it looks virtually unworn. The feathers are in excellent condition and show no signs of shedding at all. The small flaws do not show when on and for a piece of this age I would still rate it as excellent. I see no other flaws and it appears to have been worn very little if at all and is wearable with the care it would deserve to be worn with. It is remarkably sound and shockingly beautiful. It is almost 100 years old and is considered to be in museum quality condition.

Length: 48.5" top to bottom

Modern Sizing Equivalent: OSFA

Note that antique and twenties pieces are final sale. They will be packed exceedingly well and we only sell pieces that will stand up to the stress of shipping, however, having pieces potentially shipped multiple times through multiple customs and countries is too hard on garments that are historically important and deserve to be treated with love and care. Please purchase accordingly.

Item# C460

Reference Photos: Cherie, Owner of Shrimpton Couture, by Erin Leydon.

This garment has been professionally cleaned, pressed and is odor free. Thoroughly checked over before shipping, it will be ready to wear upon arrival.