Evening coat 1895 - 1899

Editor: Here we have an "Evening Coat," a textile piece dating back to the late 1890s, residing here at the Met. Its neutral tones and detailed embellishments evoke such a poised, sophisticated ambiance. What captures your attention most about this garment? Curator: Oh, absolutely! It’s more than just a coat, isn't it? It's like wearable poetry. For me, it’s the whisper of a bygone era. Imagine a woman draped in this, stepping out into a gaslit street – it speaks of secret liaisons and whispered conversations, wouldn't you say? And the art nouveau detailing cascading down...like liquid moonlight. It's both bold and incredibly delicate. It is very chic even now! Does the artistry pull you into its charm as well? Editor: It absolutely does! It feels so luxurious, but also structured with a modern flair. All that meticulous beadwork must have taken incredible skill and time. Curator: Exactly! That era, it wasn’t about mass production. Everything was so intensely personal. Each bead is a tiny brushstroke, telling its story. Editor: Do you think its possible that each bead was specially produced? Curator: That's entirely possible! It was an age that took such pride in even the smallest detail of production. Everything was a display of quality and pride! This coat bridges practicality and a desire to carry an elaborate symbol around, doesn't it? How interesting to balance both, now that I look at it... Editor: I never considered the practicality of it, but it does look cozy! This conversation really altered my view. Curator: Yes! That blend... the delicious paradox between adornment and function. So, perhaps it can be about carrying ourselves with intention... That, and not catching a cold on the way to the opera!