Evening dress

Edward Molyneux

fall/winter 1939–40 · silk, metal thread · Costume Institute

Madame Paul-Louis Weiller wore this Winterhalter evening dress at a party she and her husband hosted to celebrate Lady Mendl's 75th birthday in 1939. Commandant Paul-Louis Weiller was enthralled by Lady Mendl and often provided financial support for her lavish entertainments, including her 'Circus Ball' in July 1938. After her death he commented, "She was so delightful, and her parties were so gay. One was really happy to help her pay."

Artist

Edward Molyneux

Date

fall/winter 1939–40

Medium

silk, metal thread

Culture

French

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Gift of Mrs. Harrison Williams, Lady Mendl, and Mrs. Ector Munn, 1946