Sold Bex Lombard-Earl
£65 + pp (£3.90 UK £8.50 flat rate standard worldwide post)
UK sz 8
I am so pleased to finally offer up for sale this breathtaking original vintage stage costume piece from Dusseldorf's DEUTCHE OPER AM RHEIN and created from the historic Berlin - Munich based costumiers Theaterkunst (est 1907)
The most exquisite, ethereal of garden gowns, in a very delicate, gauze like lemon cotton, embellished with stunning lace to the sleeves and hemline and finished with a velveteen green belt trim to the underbust. So pretty, delicate and feminine - Very Pride & Prejudice / Downton Abbey / Titanic ❤️ ❤️
I have been holding this gown for several weeks whilst researching its background and I have been in touch with both the Opera and the Costumiers, who have kindly assisted me. The gown has three names inside it - Conrath, Kirsten and Beuleke, as well as the Opera and Costumier labels, so I was hopeful that some specific information may be obtained, but unfortunately there does not appear to be any records to pinpoint exactly when the gown was purchased and used by the Opera, however the Deutsche Oper am rhein have written me to confirm she would have been a Choir/Chorus piece, likely sold on at some point in a costume department wardobe sale.
I also enjoyed a telephone conversation with the very lovely Dorothee at THEATERKUNST, who confirmed that they too were unable to find any designs for the piece, but given the beautiful lace fabric used, suspects she was made in the 1960s. At first I was surprised to hear this as I was convinced she would be way older... But then I have no doubt it was designed just so by this very talented costume house - the style is certainly REGENCY/GEORGIAN era. But 1960s does sound about right as I have come to learn that the OPER AM RHEIN was established in 1956...
There are so many possibilities for this incredibly beautiful piece of German Arts history. Such a one off piece, it's surely a collectors 'must have'... Or it would make for an exquisite window display for a vintage / antique boutique - and of course, it is an outstanding piece for modelling /photography with that incredibly romantic, dreamy Regency/Georgian design. She would also make for a truly wonderful alternative vintage wedding dress - however please note she is a delicate beauty and would need a little tending to in this case - I would recommend removing the organza hem trim which is torn and adding a trim or brooch to cover the spot mark to the bodice (as pictured) long pieces for formal style occasions
Best fit UK 8, max 32'' bust, 46'' long from underarm to hem
As noted above this is more a collector piece, ideal for display or photography purposes. She could be worn again for a wedding / special occasion but would need a bit or tlc / restoration in this case.
In case you couldn't guess, I am completely enamored by her... As I hope her new owner will be too ❤️
