1920's Gallenga Couture Metallic Stenciled Red Velvet Angel-Sleeve Trained Gown

ID: 10021720

Size: small

Condition: VGood

Breathtaking Maria Monaci Gallenga Couture trained gown dating back to the early 1920's. The textile art of Gallenga is often compared to that of Mariano Fortuny because they both produced hand-stenciled designs that drew inspiration from the distant past. Gallenga became the mentor of the Italian Futurists and in 1925 exhibited in the Italian Pavilion, winning the Grand Prix for stenciled textiles. I adore the metallic stenciled medieval novelty pattern throughout. The care to place this garment together must have taken weeks. The luxurious heavily-pleated collar and waistband create a beautiful regal effect. My favorite detail is the dramatic winged angel-sleeves which Gallenga was known for. Throughout her career, she remained true to her original formula for stenciling on silk-velvet. She used as many as nine tones of gold and silver pigment to achieve the desired ombré shading. The metallic pigment does not tarnish or flake off, thanks to a special formula devised by Gallenga's husband, a Professor at the University of Rome. Examples of her work are extremely rare and found in world-renowned museum archives.

Measurements
Bust: 33-34 inches
Waist: 27 inches
Hips: up to 42 inches
Sleeve Length: 27 inches
Total Length: 59 inches (not including train)

This rare Gallenga Couture gown is in very good condition with no serious rips or holes.The workmanship is immaculate and all hand-finished. Perfectly working side metal-snaps. Only signs of age are two professional hole repairs, slight dirt marks to the back train and discoloration which is only really noticeable on the interior of garment. Please message for detailed pictures. Highly wearable and an investment piece that will continue to increase in value.