Artwork
Fumée d'opium
Fumée d'opium is a drawing by Madeleine & Madeleine. It dates from 1924 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1924 by the collaborative duo Madeleine & Madeleine, this image depicts a fashionable evening garment. The work is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography and is presented as a visual study rather than a finished textile.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing illustrates a woman wearing a sleek, dark dress accented with gold lamé. Broad, draped shoulders and a high waist belt emphasize the silhouette, while long gloves and pointed shoes complete the attire, suggesting an elegant nocturnal ensemble.
Technique & Style
Rendered in a sketch format, the artist employed fine line work and cross‑hatching to model form and texture. Notations in French detail gold embroidery and a velvet lining, indicating a careful, descriptive approach to documenting fashion details.
History & Provenance
The piece entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings after its creation, though the precise acquisition path is not recorded. Its inclusion reflects the institution’s interest in early twentieth‑century costume representation.
Context
Produced during the interwar period, the drawing aligns with contemporary fascination with exotic and luxurious evening wear. The use of lamé and elaborate shoulder construction mirrors broader trends in 1920s haute couture.
Artist & collection
Artist
These artists left a small but striking set of 1924 drawings and designs that mix fashion and line.
Museum
Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris
Continue through works from the same source collection.
