The various examples here given, in wich are manifest all richness and harmony of the Oriental style, have been selected from objects exhibited in 1869, in the Champs-Elysées, by the Central Union of Fine Arts applied to Manufactures. The greater part, it will be observed, are decorations of weapons.
Nos. 1 to 4. Ornaments on a bow belonging to M. Jacquemart. Nos. 5 and 6. Sheath of a dagger belonging to Col. Bro de Conières. Nos. 7 and 8. Ornaments on the sheath of a sword belonging to M. Jules Michelin. No. 9. Ornament on a weapon belonging to M. Jacquemart. Nos. 10 to 12. Ornaments on the neck of a bottle belonging to M. Reiber. No. 13. Ornaments on a weapon belonging to the Baroness Salomon de Rothschild. No. 14. Rim of a jug, from the same collection.
Source: Polychromatic ornament by Auguste Racinet. London, H. Sotheran and Co., 1877.
Racinet's Costume History is an invaluable reference for students, designers, artists, illustrators, and historians; and a rich source of inspiration for anyone with an interest in clothing and style. Originally published in France between 1876 and 1888, Auguste Racinet’s Le Costume historique was in its day the most wide-ranging and incisive study of clothing ever attempted.
Covering the world history of costume, dress, and style from antiquity through to the end of the 19th century, the six volume work remains completely unique in its scope and detail. “Some books just scream out to be bought; this is one of them.” ― Vogue.com
