Tea gown

Mariano Fortuny|Fortuny

1930–32 · silk · Costume Institute

Since Fortuny regarded his dress designs as inventions, he also patented his designs as early as 1909. His description reads: "This invention is related to a type of garment derived from the classical robe, but its design is so shaped and arranged that it can be worn and adjusted with ease and comfort." By the twenties and thirties a Fortuny evening dress, such as this medieval-style tunic, would be worn by women who projected a strong sense of their own individuality.

Artist

Mariano Fortuny|Fortuny

Date

1930–32

Medium

silk

Culture

Italian

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Gift of Mrs. Clarkson Runyon, 1951