Gown (fourreau) c. 1910

This "Gown (fourreau)" was made by an anonymous artist with what appears to be lace, and embroidery. The way each stitch builds up, like a painter layering brushstrokes, reveals the maker's hand and a process of loving dedication. The dress is so beautiful. The material is cream, with lavender accents, and rust coloured flower motifs. The texture is everything here. Look at the upper bodice. See how the fabric is gathered, almost pleated, as it moves away from the central floral motif. I can imagine the artist working each stitch slowly and methodically until a pattern emerges. It reminds me of Hilma af Klint's drawings, in that this artist found their own language with a limited tool kit. In both cases, their work embraces imperfection and ambiguity.