Set model

Erté (1892-1990) was the pseudonym of Romain de Tirtoff, one of most inventive designers of the 20th century. Born in Russia he moved to Paris in 1912 where he became an assistant to the fashion designer, Paul Poiret. Poiret's assistants were not allowed to sign their work so Erté's first design for the theatre went unacknowledged. It was a costume for the dancer, Mata Hari, now more famous as a spy. Erté's elegant and extravagant Art Deco style made him an ideal designer for revue where he could dress the showgirls in flowing drapery, glittering jewels and feathers. He designed a series of lavish shows in Paris and became associated with the Folies Bergères. This led to commissions to creat

Set model · Europe · ca. 1938. Watercolour, gouache, card and wood. By Erté. Victoria and Albert Museum, London.