Natacha Rambova, American, 1897-1966

Dress and Belt, 1928-1931

Silk velvet

Gift of Mrs. Philip Markert1982.c.34.AB

“[Rambova] disclaims allegiance to the Paris designers and goes for inspiration to the national arts of China, Persia, India, and Egypt, and to the costume art of the medieval and Renaissance ages.”

-The New Yorker September 1, 1928

This gown reflects Natacha Rambova’s interest in the art of different cultures. The elaborate gold embroidery—with its floral motifs, geometric shapes, and stylized palmettes—borrows design elements from India. While in New York, Rambova became friends with the Russian artists Nicholas Roerich, and his son, Svetoslav. The Roerichs’ made frequent trips to India and likely influenced Rambova’s interest in these designs.

This gown was made for Beulah Bondi, a Broadway and Hollywood character actress.

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