Friday, October 10, 2008

Marie Antoinette's Dress Goes on Display

Portrait of the Archduchess Marie Antoinette, by Martin van Meylens the Younger
1767-1768, Schonbrunn Castle, Vienna

Very few artifacts belonging to Marie Antoinette are still in existence. A gown that may have once been worn by this fashion icon will be on display from October 11 to the 26th at the ROM in the Patricia Harris Gallery of Costume and Textiles.

"Dating back to the 1780s, this beautiful two piece court dress would have sparkled throughout the glittering palace of Versailles. Known as a fashion icon, Marie Antoinette's sense of style is apparent in the rich satin fabric, silk floral embroidery, ribbon appliques, spangles and glass stones." (ROM website).

                                    On Saturday, October 18th, Caroline Weber will be giving a talk about her book "Queen of Fashion: What Marie-Antoinette wore to the Revolution". Tickets for the lecture are $20 for members, $23 for non-members.



Royal Ontario Museum
Bloor Street West at Avenue Road, Toronto, Ontario Canada    416-586-8000