Afternoon jacket

Jacques Doucet

ca. 1905 · silk, cotton, metal, wood · Costume Institute

Jacques Doucet was first, and foremost, a connoisseur of art. Additionally, his passion for the refined and exquisite overflowed into his dealings with fashion, making him one of the finest French couturiers during the Belle Époque. The House of Doucet began as a family business, specializing in women's lingerie and laces, as well as articles of clothing for men. Founded in 1817, the company rose to fame under the hand of Jacques. The house was known for its luxurious offerings, which were worn and coveted by royalty, members of the elite society in both Europe and America, and actresses of the stage. The bolero jacket was a popular style during the early part of the twentieth century and the materials chosen for this particular piece reflect the Belle Époque. Heavy cord embroidery has been combined with wooden beads, velvet ribbons and cut steel ornaments. Creating a perfect juxtaposition, this ornate and highly artistic jacket rests on a delicate layer of tulle.

Artist

Jacques Doucet

Date

ca. 1905

Medium

silk, cotton, metal, wood

Culture

French

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. Roland A. Goodman, 1964