1931-32 VALENTINA SCHLEE STENCILED CAPELET

$3,200.00

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1 in stock

Valentina Schlee (1899-1989)

Silk velvet

United States, c. 1931-32

 

This rare capelet dates to 1931-32, a pivotal moment when Schlee was moving decisively toward what she described as unstructured couture. Constructed from a single, continuous drape of velvet, the garment relies on proportion and weight rather than internal tailoring to frame the shoulders.

 

The butterfly motif is applied via stencil, an international technique that maintains the architectural presence of the velvet. Unlike embroidery, the surface remains uninterrupted, allowing the motif to feel absorbed into the textile rather than imposed upon it.

 

The label, ‘Valentina, 682 Madison Ave, Paris-New York’, places the piece within the early years of Valentina’s Gowns which opened in 1928.

 

Provenance: Private Collection, New York

 

 

 

 

 

 

CONDITION

• Mint •
Virtually no wear, in most cases refers to a vintage garment that has not been worn, may include original tags, and can be referred to as “deadstock.”
• Excellent •
Shows hardly any signs of wear.
• Very Good •
Shows normal signs of wear with some minor visible problems but will not detract from wearability of the garment.
• Good •
Vintage garment has obvious flaws and can use mending.
• Fair •
The garment is most likely not wearable, but could serve as an inspiration or study piece.