
- Theatre costume
- Enlarge image
Theatre costume
- Materials and Techniques:
Braid, gold thread, paste (glass), metal
- Credit Line:
Given by the Trustees of the Ram Gopal Estate
- Museum number:
S.122-2004
- Gallery location:
In Storage
Ram Gopal was one of the most important dancers of the 20th century and certainly one of the most exotic theatre performers. He was a major figure in the revival of Indian dance and his spectacular theatrical presentations introduced it to audiences both in Asia and the West. He was proud of the authenticity of his music, costuming and style, shrewdly tailored his presentations to Western audiences, using modern theatrical techniques and spectacular presentation.
Besides a mass of exotic costumes, Gopal also had a large collection of stage jewellery and accessories, which he, or other members of his company, would have worn in many different dances. His stage jewellery included both 'real' items and others remade in the style of the originals but translated into theatrical terms, using imaginative materials. This belt is a mix of the two methods - instead of metal, the basis of the belt is a white and gold braid, stitched with elaborate metal lozenges, trimmed with jewels.