Bodice
1997 {autumn-winter 1997}
Medium
linen, cotton (lining), metal (fastenings)
Measurements
77.0 cm (centre back) 27.0 cm (waist, flat)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased NGV Foundation, 2018
Gallery location
Not on display
About this work
In its brand messaging, Maison Martin Margiela often plays on the iconography of the tailors’ atelier. Much like the traditional dressmaker form, Margiela’s linen bodice is numbered and lettered. Printed at the bottom are the words ‘semi couture’, reminding us of the hands involved in the stitching and tailoring of any garment. Margiela dresses the woman in the shape of fetishised femininity, thereby showing the artificiality of gender as constructed by fashion.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
Italy
Inscription
stamped in ink u.c.: 42
stamped in ink l.c: SEMI COUTURE / PARIS / BREVETE S.G.E.G / 35059
Accession Number
2018.30
Department
International Fashion and Textiles
This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of Professor AGL Shaw AO Bequest