Japon van blauwgroene velours chiffon en zalmkleurige zijde, waarover machinale kant en zwarte tule met blauwgroen kralenborduursel, bestaande uit een lijf (a) en rok (b). c. 1912

This dress, attributed to Hirsch & Cie N.V., showcases a Japon-inspired aesthetic through its blend of blue-green velvet chiffon, salmon-colored silk, machine-made lace, and black tulle with blue-green beadwork. The materials speak to a time when textile production was evolving, combining luxurious, natural fabrics like silk and velvet with emerging industrial techniques like machine lace. Notice how the velvet's plushness contrasts with the airy delicacy of the chiffon and tulle, creating a play of textures and weights. The beadwork, likely applied by skilled hands, adds a layer of intricate detail that catches the light. The dress exemplifies the early 20th-century fascination with global cultures and the changing landscape of fashion, where craft and machine production began to intertwine. These techniques reflect shifts in labor practices, politics, and consumption, challenging the traditional boundaries between artistry, industry, and fashion. It's a compelling reminder of the socio-economic forces that shape what we wear.