1930s -40s French Opera Tunic Dress by Henri Lebrun – Pink Grosgrain with Black Soutache Trim – Vintage Theatrical Costume

A dramatic and rare c.1930s French opera tunic dress, designed by the esteemed costume designer Henri Lebrun. Lebrun was a prominent figure in French theatrical design, creating richly stylized costumes for opera and stage productions before moving to Hollywood, where he worked on films including Don Juan (1956) and Swords of Blood (1962). This dress comes from the same costume collection as a labeled Lebrun piece, confirming its attribution.

Made from soft pink grosgrain fabric, the dress features bold black soutache embroidery and silk trim in sweeping geometric patterns. It has wide, sculptural bell sleeves lined in white gauze, deep side slits, and fastens up the back with metal hooks and eyes (some of which are missing). A dramatic and elegant example of interwar French stage costume.

Measurements (laid flat):

• Underarm to underarm: 17.5 in / 44.5 cm
• Shoulder to shoulder: 18.5 in / 47 cm
• Sleeve length: 16 in / 40.5 cm
• Waist: 14 in / 35.5 cm
• Length (shoulder to hem): 45 in / 114 cm

Condition:

Good structural condition with visible wear from use as a stage costume:

• Freshly hand-washed in cool water with gentle detergent
• A few metal hooks and eyes are missing along the back closure
• Significant rust staining across the front, as shown in photos
• Rust mark on the right sleeve
• The tunic is unlined, except for the sleeves, which are lined in white gauze

Despite signs of wear, this remains a rare and visually impactful piece of 1930s French theatrical history, exemplifying Henri Lebrun’s flair for dramatic stage design.

Provenance:

Designed by Henri Lebrun, with attribution confirmed by a labeled piece from the same costume series. This tunic was later used by Aristide Boyer, a Marseille-based costume supplier. It may have been created for a production Boyer outfitted or acquired for later reuse. The design reflects Lebrun’s distinctive theatrical style, commonly seen in opera productions of the period.

Shipping:

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