A fine and rare Elsa Schiaparelli embroidered coat, Zodiac collection, Autumn-Winter, 1938-39, Paris labelled and numbered 64202, of black wool, the pink velvet rococo inspired pockets with Lesage embroidered gilt metal strips, the centre with violet sequined female profiles edged in gilt strip, and sprigged with gold lustre edged Sevres porcelain flowers, with seven bronze-effect rolled porcelain buttons, lightly padded shoulders, lined in black silk, bust 86cm, 34in Schiaparelli's Zodiac collection not only included astrological references but also took inspiration from the palace of Versailles and the reign of Louis XV. Schiaparelli specially commissioned these porcelain blooms from the Sevres factory in Vincennes. The pink, gold, mauve tones are typical of the Sevres factory's colour palette.

Good condition. Buttons are more bronze than gold in colour but good condition, no chips or losses. Black wool tweed is good condition. Pockets – good condition. There are faint ink or penceil marks to denote where the porcelain leaves should be positioned but this is not a defect, it is part of the original design and construction. One of the porcelain roses on the right pocket is loose and needs re-stitching. One rose with miniscule chip. The gold edging threads are lustrous and good. Sequined silhouettes are good and complete. Black silk taffeta lining is generally good. Label has been re-sewn and is missing one end and is split at the other end.