Scarf
ca. 1980 (made)
| Artist/Maker | |
| Place of origin |
The Hermès silk scarf, or carré, has achieved cult fashion status. New patterns and colours are released every season, based around the two enduring designs: classic and pleated. Not surprisingly, given the company's equestrian roots, the 'formal bridle' pattern seen here, is a recurrent theme and has become part of Hermès's signature look. Combining elegant lines, cool classicism and whimsical patterns, these silk scarves have come to signify the refined luxury for which Hermès is known.
This particular scarf was not produced for retail distribution; it was part of a limited edition of scarves woven and printed with an invitation to the re-opening of the Hermès branch in Geneva. The text reinforces the luxury status of the brand:
"Hermès, the word evokes handsome leathers stitched by hand, high-quality fabrics, delicate perfumes..."
This particular scarf was not produced for retail distribution; it was part of a limited edition of scarves woven and printed with an invitation to the re-opening of the Hermès branch in Geneva. The text reinforces the luxury status of the brand:
"Hermès, the word evokes handsome leathers stitched by hand, high-quality fabrics, delicate perfumes..."
Object details
| Categories | |
| Object type | |
| Materials and techniques | Screen-printed silk, machine sewn |
| Brief description | Hermès silk scarf, printed invitation with brides de gala design, French, ca. 1980. |
| Physical description | Square white silk scarf, with a screen-printed design. A blue border frames a red bridle, which forms a cartouche shape enclosing a further bride de gala (formal bridle), the stirrup ornamented by mermaids and the metal components decorated with coronets, acanthus leaves and fleur-de-lys-style foliage. Two lions flank a coat of arms, surmounted with a crown. The scarf bears two inscriptions, one in the upper middle and a second in the lower middle, the text of which constitutes an invitation. |
| Dimensions |
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| Marks and inscriptions |
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| Credit line | Given by Jill Ritblat |
| Object history | Hermès prides itself on its craftsmanship. The signature silk scarves are all woven and printed in the Hermès factory in Lyons; the hem of each scarf is hand-rolled. |
| Historical context | Hermès was founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermès, a saddlemaker, whose mission was to create luxury equestrian gear of the highest quality, for wealthy Parisian clients. Hermès later expanded its range to include luggage, jewellery, accessories and fashion. The company is still run by Thierry Hermès's descendants, remaining very much a family affair. |
| Production | Reason For Production: Commemorative |
| Subjects depicted | |
| Summary | The Hermès silk scarf, or carré, has achieved cult fashion status. New patterns and colours are released every season, based around the two enduring designs: classic and pleated. Not surprisingly, given the company's equestrian roots, the 'formal bridle' pattern seen here, is a recurrent theme and has become part of Hermès's signature look. Combining elegant lines, cool classicism and whimsical patterns, these silk scarves have come to signify the refined luxury for which Hermès is known. This particular scarf was not produced for retail distribution; it was part of a limited edition of scarves woven and printed with an invitation to the re-opening of the Hermès branch in Geneva. The text reinforces the luxury status of the brand: "Hermès, the word evokes handsome leathers stitched by hand, high-quality fabrics, delicate perfumes..." |
| Collection | |
| Accession number | T.633-2000 |
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| Record created | September 11, 2000 |
| Record URL |
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