
As a young student whilst midway through the final year of my Diploma in Art & Design (completed prior to going to Uni), one of my tutors (Tony Southall) introduced me to an artist and designer of the 1900s’ called Mariano Fortuny (1871-1949) . Now, Tony was specifically showing me the couture of Fortuny and his signature piece, the ‘Delphos’ dress as my dissertation included Greek Mythology and design, and he thought I would be interested.
I was naturally, but I became fascinated by Fortuny, as further investigation revealed an amazing man, whose range of abilities, skill and vision was extensive to say the least. Fortuny came late to Couture as prior to this he had been a painter, a sculpture, an inventor and architect. He created set designs and lighting for the theatre, bound books, designed furniture, made paints, brushes, machines and much, much more. After marrying Henriette Negrin in Paris, he became interested in Couture and began designing dresses based on the art of the ancient Greeks, and progressed from there to textile design. His dresses became highly sought after by the likes of Isadora Duncan and many luminaries of the times. Today his pieces are highly collectable, and are to be found in many museums and collections around the world. From the constricting and formal wear of the Edwardian period, Fortuny revolutionized the female form and introduced a style of garment that was about freedom of movement.
I remain to this day, despite less of an interest in Couture, a huge fan of Mariano Fortuny still, and have many books about him. So, I thought I would share some of his beautiful garments with you. Additionally, the House of Fortuny continues and thrives in Venice (and New York) where wonderful fabrics can be bought.
hello, i found ur blog via @uk handmade on facebook. Wow am i glad i did! fabulous inspiration and i love the Mariano Fortuny designs that u have pictured here. i have always had a very creative side and i make jewellery, sew, bake, crochet and generally make a mess in my craft room lol so i love looking and being inspired by great artists and designers. I have never studied formally apart from art and design at high school but both my father and mother paint, write poetry and have passed down their creative genes i’m glad to say. It is the one true passion i have in life. Will definately be reading more of ur blogs and please feel free to drop me a wee line by email or on my website to say hi. creative blessings Mo x
Hi there Morag…
Lovely to meet you and thank you for all the nice feedback. I had a look at your site, your jewellery is lovely and I am very taken with one or two of your bracelets, so will be back.
Thanks for dropping by…
Lorrie
Gorgeous style! And as you say, definitely a departure from the standard clothing of that period…. very bohemian! And timeless, too, as the look is modern enough that it could still be worn today. 🙂
Personally, I’m drooling over that teal velvet cloak, and I love the pairing of the slinky Delphos dress with a jacket. 🙂
I can see why Fortuny would appeal to you Tara, almost a hark back to the regency line. Personally, I love the coats and cloaks more than the dresses, I love the sumptuousness.
Lorrie
Great post, thanks for the mention!
My pleasure and thank you 🙂
Lorrie
Very interesting post. The garments are quite unique, I had not seen them before. Thank you for posting this artist, I would like to learn more about Fortuny.
Thank you Daniel, glad you liked. There are many good books about Fortuny. 🙂
Lorrie
Beautiful coats. I am always extra jealous as I am too short for fashion. My dream is a multi-coloured coat some day in my height. Thank you for showing us these beautiful creations.