1920s Piano Shawl Kimono

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About the Item

This is a piano shawl from the 1920s. These garments were originally meant just as their names suggest: as shawls for pianos. During the Orientalism craze of the 1910s, these sumptuous and heavily decorated textiles, which had been imported from China steadily throughout the Victorian period, took on a new popularity. Art of the 1920s frequently depicted women wrapped in a piano shawl like a cape, and wearing nothing underneath. The heavy embroidery and long fringes, meant to protect the piano from harm, became important elements of 1920s flapper dress. Thus the piano shawl, originally a protective covering for an instrument or a piece of furniture, became a luxurious sex symbol of the Jazz Age, and was worn in various iterations as a peignoir or dressing gown, a fine shawl, or even an evening wrap. We made this kimono based off of the inspiration of an original period one using an antique hand embroidered shawl. It is cut as a T-shaped kimono, continuing the Orientalist aesthetic, and the embroidery follows the edges in a crisp border to accent the design. The embroidery, in polychrome silks with an incredible level of detail. The level of skill and effort involved in making a piece of this complex precision should not be underestimated, this is truly a stunning example. The fringe consists of a wide panel of worked lace in black silk, the bottom edge of which falls away into the waterfall of fringe. This extends from the hem as well as the wrists, lengthening the figure while allowing easy and elegant movement. This is an incredible garment from one of the most intriguing periods of history, when heightened technology, a burgeoning and optimistic economy, and widespread social exuberance came together to create a culture of never-before-seen freedom and luxury. This garment reflects all of that while still retaining the effortless elegance of the early 20th century, and the refinement of traditional Chinese craftsmanship. It is a stunning piece for any collection.

Dimensions:
Width: 42 in (106.68 cm)Length: 59 in (149.86 cm)Marked Size: OS (US)
Place of Origin:
China
Period:
Early 20th Century
Condition:
Seller Location:
New York, NY
Reference Number:
Seller: SKU EE4331stDibs: LU16121029142

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