In a tribute to haute couture, auction house Christie’s will present a selection of 115 most striking pieces from the V.W.S. Collection – From Beijing to Versailles. The collection, made up of pieces dating back mainly to the 1970s, 80s and 90s, displays an impeccable and exceptional know-how, creativity and glory of Haute Couture. Consisting of great names such as Christian Lacroix, Christian Dior, Hubert de Givenchy, Jean-Louis Scherrer, Valentino, Yves Saint Laurent, Karl Lagerfeld and other great 20th century masters, the collection will be auctioned online between January 11 to 25.
Yves Saint Laurent Autumn Winter 1991-1992, An Evening Long Ensemble in Silk Organza, From Bluche and Flocking Lame from Abraham
The diversity of the pieces featured in this selection, including cocktail dresses, day dresses, evening outfits, embroidered garments, skirt or trouser suits, is remarkable. A jacket in velvet crepe embroidered with sequins, gemstones and creased golden leather from 1987-1988 by Yves Saint Laurent (€3,000 – €5,000) will humble collectors and Haute Couture lovers.
Valentino Garavani Autumn Winter 1989-1990, An Embroidered Green Chiffon Satin Evening Gown with Blue Satin Underskirt
Several pieces, adorned in particular by Maison Lesage, are reminiscent of the interconnection of cultures and civilisations highlighted in ‘From Beijing to Versailles, the V.W.S Collection’ – starting from the Chanel Maison which, under Karl Lagerfeld’s direction, distinguishes itself with a remarkable Hurel violet velvet dress entirely embroidered with “Tudor” motif pearls (€4,000 – €6,000).
Givenchy Autumn Winter 1979-1980, A Black Velvet Evening Set Jacket with Red Satin Lips & Black Taffeta Flared Skirt
The sale has a wealth of pieces synthesizing at once grandeur and modernity, like the many creations blending black and white. The enticing estimates, between €400 and €4,000 is worthwhile. Five percent of the sale’s total proceeds will be donated to the Arts Décoratifs Museum in Paris.
Christian Lacroix Spring Summer, A 1997 Long Evening Ensemble in Orange Tweed & Wild Silk
This selection, brimming with discoveries, colours, elegance and drama, will be presented in a dedicated setting, created in partnership with the architect and founder of the Culture in Architecture studio, Aline Asmar d’Amman.
