A rare and early Jacques Fath ball gown and matching cape, early 1940s, the gown labelled `Jacques Fath, Paris', of deep rose-pink satin, zip-fastened centre-front and with zips to both cuffs, the bodice embroidered with stylised flowers and seeds, large elliptical topaz coloured pastes, chunky beads and raised couched threads and braids and scattered silver and gold sequins, the gently gathered skirt which culminates in a padded, quilted band at the hem; the matching cape with similar quilted detailing to the angular collar and hem, bust 91cm, 36in, waist 71cm, 28in, (2) Jacques Fath (1912-1954) was one of the most influential designers in post-war Paris. His first collection was in 1937 and he was named as one of the most important designers of 1939. On the outbreak of World War II he enlisted in the army and was taken prisoner in 1940. On his release he re-opened his house in Rue François 1st with his wife Genevieve and produced clothes for those who could afford them during the occupation until 1944 when he moved to Avenue Pierre. His success grew as did his client list and he named among them Rita Hayworth who chose him to design her trousseau for her wedding to Ali Khan. He died of leukaemia aged forty-two.

Gown: The centre front waist looks slightly grubby, the bodice has a slightly soiled appearance and would benefit from specialist cleaning - although it still looks perfectly alright for display purposes; invisible repair to inner elbow of right sleeve, the odd tiny snag here and there to the satin, tulle inner lining is torn, hem has been turned up, soiling to hem edge Cape: Good condition, slightly grubby, 1in hole in seam inside bottom hem, fabric has few snags on right shoulder at the back