Image from Berard by Boris Kochno
Christain Berard (1902-1949) detailing his design for the Théâtre de la Mode in London
Photograph by Roger Schall decorated by Christian Berard
Image from Berard by Boris Kochno
After the ravages of the Nazi occupation of Paris, Lucien Lelong initiated the concept for a fashion extravaganza in miniature. Minaiature because supplied where in such short supply; things like fabric, needles, and thread, but talent, ingenuity, and creative energy where in abundance. The finest theatrical designers, set decorators, and couturiers produced magical illusions in miniature featuring the fashions of post-World War II France. The mannequins were one-third human size. They were dressed in fashions created by the country’s finest designers, and were where displayed in 13 fabulous scenes. For example Jean Cocteau’s Ma Femme est une Sorcière (My Wife is a Witch), A Tribute to Renè Clair and Jean Saint-Martin’s Croquis de Paris (Paris Sketch), both originally created in 1945. Also Georges Wakhevitch’s set The Port of Nowhere.
After the premiere in Paris the exhibition toured toured Europe then America.
The last stop of the original 1946 international tour of Théâtre de la Mode was San Francisco where the mannequins remained until the early 1950s. When Alma de Bretteville Spreckels, wife of a San Francisco sugar magnate suggested that they be acquired by Maryhill Museum of Art.
the original mannequins at the Maryhill Museum
The museum is a castle-like chateau on a stunning 6,000-acre site overlooking the scenic Columbia River Gorge, Maryhill Museum is located 100 miles east of Portland, Oregon. (here)
The photos are stamped on the back.
This collection is extremely rare. This is a unique opportunity to own documents of great originality
and historical importance.
This collection is extremely rare. This is a unique opportunity to own documents of great originality
and historical importance.
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