Antique 1880 French Opera PREMIER Costume AIDA Verdi Paris Egyptian Pastel Purple Sun Fade Gold 19th Century

Incredible museum worthy opera costume. This was made for the Paris premiere of Aida in 1880. Verdi himself was there conducting at the Palais Garnier. This is so beautiful. Made in a very lightweight purple wool and lined in cotton or perhaps linen. There are moon and sun motif appliqués on the upper section and pyramid and column or tree motifs on the lower section. Gold metal ribbon trim. There is an interior pocket: 

This is a pinafore tunic which is open at the back. It hangs lower at the back and creates a point. It fastens with bone buttons up the back. It was shortened at some point and has signs of this and sun fade. All hand stitched. 

Such an astonishing treasure and important part piece of opera history. A glorious design. 

Measures: 21” across the top which would sit underarm. 19” across the waist, 54” long from the top of the shoulder to front hem (longer at the back).

Condition: freshly laundered by hand using a gentle detergent and then steamed. There are patch repairs. Sun fade. Stitches remain here and there from previous adjustments. A few scattered small holes in the lightweight wool. The lining has some stains as shown. A large hole in the back as shown. The back appears quite unfinished and could do with some adjustments of it is being worn. 

Please inspect the photos and ask any questions you have.