Last quarter of 19th century
France
Ball gown in black Chantilly lace and sky blue taffeta. In two parts, whalebone bodice, large generous neckline and three-quarter length sleeves with falbalas, laced in the back. Plunging skirt with a very large bottom folded back into a train and asymmetrical treatment by velvet ribbon favourites and applied rosettes. It's a Second Empire dress altered late 19th century and has no major defects. Very good general condition of colour and conservation. A collector's item but wearable today due to its large size.
Dimensions: French size 42/44. Bodice: shoulders 44 cm, sleeves 50 cm, chest 108 cm, waist 87 cm, height 37 cm. Skirt: waist 89 cm, front height 108 cm, back height 140 cm, skirt bottom 360 cm!