Advanced Search 
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.
Feathered headpiece
Designed by: William J. (Bill Cunningham) (American, born 1929)
American
1985-1990
Medium/Technique
Bird of paradise feathers, silk satin, lace, sequins
Dimensions
Height x width: 14 x 14 in. (35.6 x 35.6 cm)
Credit Line
The Evelyn H. Lauder Fashion Collection—Gift of Leonard A. Lauder
Accession Number2013.696
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsContemporary Art, Americas, Fashion and Textiles
ClassificationsCostumes
DescriptionFeathered headpiece. Base of the headpiece is a diamond shape, (curved to fit the shape of the head) with emerald-green, satin fabric. The diamond shape is lined with a thin, black, nylon cord, with small loops (most likely acting as fastners). Emerald green lace is appliqued onto the satin, and small transparent green sequins are sewn (in a serpintine design) onto the lace. From the center to back of the diamond-shaped headpiece, the green satin fabric is raised into a three-dimmensional, triangular form. The triangular form is split down the center, and an arrangement of green and wine-colored feathers are placed inside for support. There are groupings of the feathers wrapped in dark brown thread, also for support. The feathers are long, and curve inward toward the left.
ProvenanceBefore 2011, acquired by Evelyn H. Lauder (b. 1936 - d. 2011); 2011, given by inheritance to her husband, Leonard A. Lauder, New York, NY; 2013, gift of Lauder to the MFA. (Accession date: June 26, 2013)