Antique French Opera Costume Tunic 1887 Purple Silk Velvet Tunic Doublet Renaissance Paris Theatre 19th Century

Incredible 1887 French Opera Costume – Worn by Étienne Gibert in Esclarmonde

Opéra-Comique, Paris

A rare and historically documented opera costume made for the Paris premiere of Esclarmonde by Jules Massenet, performed at the Théâtre Lyrique on 15 May 1889. This stunning purple silk velvet tunic with grosgrain silk sleeves was worn by the tenor Étienne Gibert in the role of Roland—his second-ever operatic appearance.

The costume is constructed in rich purple silk velvet with diagonally placed cording across the lower front. Buttons are concealed along the back closure. The body has a softly padded structure, as was common in 19th-century theatrical tailoring. Inside, the original stamp reads 1887, with Gibert’s name and role handwritten in ink—a remarkable piece of provenance.

A known period photograph of Gibert in this very tunic exists (not included, but accessible online), showing the full costume ensemble including a chainmail collar, heraldic appliqués, leather sleeve covers, and a jewelled belt layered over this base piece.

Measurements (Please Note: Very Small Size):

Bust (underarm to underarm): 18”

Waist: 17”

Shoulders: 14.5”

Sleeve length: 25”

Length (shoulder to hem): 27.3”

Due to the lightly padded structure, actual fit is smaller than measurements suggest.

Condition:

Excellent for its age and stage use. No major flaws noted. Please feel free to request additional photos or details.

A museum-worthy piece of operatic and theatrical history—rare to find with such clear documentation.

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