1974 Zandra Rhodes Silk 'Field of Lilies' Caftan Set

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1974 Zandra Rhodes Silk 'Field of Lilies' Caftan Set

About the Item

This two piece caftan feel set by the great Zandra Rhodes in not only rare but in museum level quality. It is constructed of a fine white silk chiffon that is entirely hand painted. (note that the top in some pics has a yellow tinge - that is lighting only - the fabric has no discoloration or yellowing!) The top is cut caftan-like and is a draped confection of silk and pearls. It is super wide through the body and dips low at each hip. A second layer wafts around the neckline and ends in a point on both the front and back. This is edged in pearls that are also used to highlight the seams that run vertical to the arms. The print is entirely done by hand with the word lilies running over it. The skirt flows to the floor and the pink portion of the hand painted design is used less on the skirt so you really notice the text that covers the skirt. Great beautiful lilies are painted on it and the field of lilies text she is infamous for is scrolled across it top to bottom. 'I love beautiful flower' 'Beautiful flower' 'A lily flower, a lily, a lily' 'A field of lilies' 'Lilies lots and lots of beautiful lilies a field of yet more lilies' 'Zandra Rhodes, Zandra Rhodes' 'Grass' 'Leaves more leaves, leaves green' 'Zandra's beautiful lilies' is written on various parts. The V&A Museum notes about this print: "Zandra Rhodes considers the Lily prints to be the best of her work, and particularly significant. It was while developing the Lily textiles that she developed the method of reversing the silkscreen to produce a mirror image of the print and create symmetrical patterns. This went on to influence many of her future significant prints, such as 'Lace Mountain', 'Cactus Volcano' and 'Scribble Turnaround'. The Lily prints also represent the introduction of handwriting and calligraphy into her textile designs. Another point of significance for Zandra is that the Lily dresses were the first dresses that she started applying beading to, which would become a future trademark." It is a true work of art, exceedingly rare and very special - it is remarkably close to the Field of Lilies piece pictured in Life Magazine shown being fitted by Zandra herself. Excellent condition! Top (caftan like fit) Sleeves: 21" Shoulders: 18ï¿½ from seam to seam Bust: to 20ï¿½ flat across from side seam to side seam Skirt Waist: 17 -19ï¿½ flat across from side seam to side seam with elastic as it is now - this could easily be adjusted smaller if needed Hips: open Length: 37ï¿½ from neck to bottom hem Both pieces are unlined and semi-sheer. The top has no closures and slips over the head. The skirt has an elastic waist and is very generous in cut. You could wear it on the hips if you are smaller or have the elastic inside the waistband shortened to make it smaller as otherwise it will fit just about any size! Hand Painted fabric Modern Sizing equivalent: SML-LRG (6-12)

Designer:
Zandra Rhodes
Dimensions:
Marked Size: SML-LRG (6-12) (US)
Period:
1970-1979
Condition:
Excellent.
Seller Location:
Rockwood, CA
Reference Number:
Seller: Item# DD9881stDibs: AU1209241281225