Maison Rouff - Hussarde Velvet Whale-shaped Bodice - Art Nouveau Period Paris Circa 1885

Circa 1885 -1890FranceRare boned day bodice for bustle skirt from Maison Rouff in Paris and dating from the years 1885-1890. The fabric is a brocaded velvet with large black and purple stripes punctuated in a staggered pattern with oval floral medallions typical of Art Nouveau. Cut with a stand-up collar, hooked at the front, three-quarter sleeves, highlighted on the shoulders, front and basques with applied brandenburgs with black silk tassels. The interior is lined with black taffeta with seven whalebone stays (verifiable because one is discovered). A waist belt sewn inside in cream woven silk grosgrain bears the mention Rouff PARIS, according to the same design criteria as the illustrious houses Worth and Doucet. The tail of this bodice with "à la hussarde" accents indicates that it was suitable for a bustle or pouff line from the years 1885-1890. The Maison Rouff is unfortunately little documented like its competitors, such as Jean-Philippe Worth, Jacques Doucet or Jeanne Paquin, which increases the interest in the study of such a piece which is very rare. Note a slight patina of the velvet which includes halos of discoloration under the armpits, some broken whalebone, and missing tassels of passementerie. The velvet is however in good condition and without cuts. Stable state of conservation. Dimensions: Equivalent size 34 France. Shoulders 33 cm, waist 68 cm, sleeves 54 cm, chest 85 cm, height 54 cm.