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Thumbnail-size images of copyrighted artworks are displayed under fair use, in accordance with guidelines recommended by the Code of Best Practices in Fair Use for the Visual Arts, published by the College Art Association in February 2015.
Woman's dress
Designed by: Pierre Balmain (French, 1914–1982)
French
1960–65
Medium/Technique
Silk plain weave (chiffon) and velvet
Dimensions
Center back: 106.7 cm (42 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. James M. Gavin
Accession Number2007.1138
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsEurope, Contemporary Art, Fashion and Textiles
ClassificationsCostumes
DescriptionSleeveless black cocktail or short evening dress of silk chiffon over cream silk satin lining, with draped neckline front and back, attached wide velvet belt, and silk chenille ball fringe at hem. Skirt hangs from cream silk grosgrain waistband inside. Metal zipper, hooks and eyes, and snaps; hem faced with machine lace. Label at front waist: "Pierre Balmain Paris"; tape attached to back of label with illegible handwritten couture number.
ProvenancePurchased by the donor, Jean Gavin, from Pierre Balmain between 1961-1962; Gift to MFA (Accession Date: January 23, 2008)