A fine black velvet ball gown attributed to Schiaparelli, circa 1936, un-labelled, the figure-hugging gown with curved, raised waistline, V-shaped neck opening with ruched velvet collar, the long sleeves with mancherons of ruched velvet, the cuffs with prestud fasteners, two large black celluloid zips to each side of the waist, the skirt gently tapering until it explodes at the hem with curved, swagged stiffened godets of ruched velvet, bust 86cm, 34in, Provenance: Lady Clark of Saltwood

fabric at base of V-neck with small snag and in need of re-stitching, one underarm seam has been slightly re-stitched