Cape 1891 - 1901

This cape was made by the House of Worth, a Parisian fashion house, sometime between 1887 and 1898. In the late 19th century, Paris was the epicenter of the fashion world, and the House of Worth was at its pinnacle. Founded by Charles Frederick Worth, the fashion house catered to royalty, aristocrats, and social elites, essentially dictating the styles and trends of the era. This cape epitomizes the opulence and luxury associated with Worth's designs, its intricate lace, plush velvet, and shimmering details spoke to a culture of conspicuous consumption. The House of Worth was not merely a dressmaker; it was an institution that shaped the very concept of haute couture. By establishing seasonal collections and employing innovative marketing strategies, Worth transformed dressmaking into a high art, while solidifying its position as a cultural and economic powerhouse. To fully grasp the cape's significance, one might delve into fashion magazines and social chronicles of the time. These primary sources offer invaluable insights into the cultural values, social hierarchies, and artistic sensibilities that shaped its creation.