Parisian auction house Maurice Auction achieved a groundbreaking sale on October 7th, setting a new record in the fashion world. An exquisite Chanel embroidered tunic, dating all the way back to 1922, fetched a staggering 130,000 euros. This remarkable price has never been seen before for a garment from that era, highlighting the enduring appeal and value of vintage fashion.
The discovery of this extraordinary tunic adds to its allure. The piece had been tucked away in the attic of a castle in Grasse for several decades, until fashion specialist Kelly Taylor stumbled upon it. Immediately recognizing its significance, Taylor identified the tunic as a unique creation from Chanel’s Spring 1922 collection. During this period, Coco Chanel had veered away from her famous tweed designs and instead embraced the popular trend of Russian embroidery. With the assistance of Duchess Maria Pavlovna, Chanel crafted an entire collection using this intricate sewing technique.
Describing the tunic in question, it is made of flowing black crepe fabric and features voluminous sleeves and a square collar. The embroidered details consist of vibrant green, yellow, and red hues, accentuated by delicate silver threads. Initially valued at 10,000 euros, the tunic surpassed all expectations and sold for an unprecedented 130,000 euros. This groundbreaking amount marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time a Chanel piece from that era has commanded such a hefty price tag.
While this historic sale is impressive, it is part of a larger trend in the auction market. Record-breaking sales have become increasingly common, capturing the attention of collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Some recent notable examples include the sale of the “Fortune Pink” diamond, a remarkable 18.18-carat pink diamond that fetched an astonishing 28.6 million euros at a Christie’s event in Geneva. Adding to the excitement, Christie’s also made headlines by offering the world’s rarest bag, a coveted Kelly model from Hermès, which was ultimately sold for an eye-popping sum of 189,000 euros.
Remarkably, it is the watch market that takes the lead in commanding astronomical prices at auctions. Christie’s, in particular, has been at the forefront of this market, recording a staggering 93.7 million dollars in watch sales during the spring of 2021. The demand for exclusive and one-of-a-kind items, whether they are fashion pieces or luxury accessories, continues to drive these extraordinary prices at auctions.
With each groundbreaking sale, the auction industry demonstrates its ability to captivate and intrigue collectors, pushing the boundaries of what is considered valuable and desirable. The story of the Chanel tunic serves as a reminder that the allure of vintage fashion can withstand the test of time, transcending decades and fetching prices that surpass all expectations.
Useful Links:
– Christie’s Auction House
– Hermès
