Left: This evening cape is styled like the burnoose, a hooded cloak traditionally worn in Arab countries. The loosely-draped silhouette is a fashionable interpretation of the un-restricted style of dress favored by followers of the Aesthetic Movement. Liberty & Co. was known as a proponent of such clothing, often inspired by non-Western design.

Middle: This Persian-inspired textile exhibits a typical Art Nouveau “whiplash” curve among the leaf motifs. Art Nouveau artists were often inspired by world cultures, including, in this case, Persian pottery.

Right: This dressing gown resembles a kimono and the printed fabric imitates the look of Japanese ikat, a method of weaving that uses tie-dyed yarns to create blurred patterns. At the turn of the 20th century, artistic followers of fashion coveted traditional Japanese textiles and clothing. The increase in demand led Western manufacturers to emulate Japanese style.

  November 27, 2007 - May 7, 2008

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Left: Liberty & Co. Ltd, cape, green silk satin, c.1900, England, P90.15.4, museum purchase
Middle: Printed floral in serpentine layout, wool, c.1900, France, P88.77.2, museum purchase
Right: Dressing gown, crinkle cotton and black satin, c.1907, USA, 76.178.18, gift of Mrs. Jerome Kilty, photograph by Irving Solero