Evening cape 1885 - 1889

This is an evening cape, made by Emile Pingat. The cape likely dates from the late 19th century and is made of velvet and fur, with intricate detailing. At this time, Paris was the center of the fashion world, and designers like Pingat catered to a wealthy clientele who could afford luxurious materials and detailed craftsmanship. Wearing such a cape was a display of social status, connecting the wearer to a world of exclusive social events. This cape reflects the values of the time. It is conservative and doesn't challenge social norms; instead, it embodies the opulence and rigid social hierarchy of the period. Studying sources like fashion magazines, social diaries, and economic data from the time help us understand the culture that shaped this object.