Givenchy Haute Couture Pleated Silk Gown with Sequin Sleeves and Side Panels, c. 1977

Haute Couture black silk chiffon evening dress with black velvet trimmed box neckline, fish scale style sequined sleeves and side panels, flare-pleated front and back panels, and back left side zipper closure.
Label: Givenchy
Size Label: Unlabeled
Style/Serial No.: 59239

Approximate Measurements:
Shoulders: 15.75"
Chest: 36"
Waist: 40"
Hips: 44"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 56.5"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 31.5"
Property from the Collection of Countess Anita von Galen
This lot is one of sixty-seven in this auction from Countess Anita von Galen, a German aristocrat and socialite known for her avant-garde sense of style and brilliant entertaining. Over the years, the Countess von Galen has used her visionary eye and a penchant for unique silhouettes to build an extraordinary collection of haute couture. She considered Hubert de Givenchy (Lots 1-18) and his partner, Philippe Venet, also a couturier (Lots 19-20), close friends, with Givenchy designing the baptismal gown (Lot 1) for her only son, Ferdinand Otto von Galen. Beyond her friendship with the couple, Countess von Galen was an ardent supporter of emerging, avant-garde designers including Pierre Cardin (Lots 25-48), Kansai Yamamoto (Lots 61-62), and Yohji Yamamoto (Lot 63).

Condition:The overall condition is very good though there is some light soiling internally under each arm and in the front chest lining. There is a slight weakening of the right under arm seam, but it is still attached. The pleating at the hemline has started to relax from wear and there is some light soiling and small holes along the front and back hemline. Some of the sequins have been bent along the side panels below the low hip and knee level. Everything is sold 'As Is'. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email us with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.