Whether you are a lover of beautiful Edwardian fashion or simply a vintage woman who appreciates a timeless style and impeccable tailoring, this jacket is incredibly compelling.

Fashioned from the most glorious deep purple silk velvet corduroy. In daylight, the color will appear slightly plum. No matter the light, the color is astounding. A royal purple indeed.

In my mind's eye, the purple is the same color as the cloak worn by Cleopatra and Antony's only known grandson 2000 years ago. Legend has it that upon Caligula's invitation, the Ptolemy king attended a gladiatorial event. His entrance in the purple cape caused such a stir that the displeased Caligula order his execution. (Story reference: Cleopatra: A Life by Stacy Schiff).

The piece is accented with four 1 5/8" art nouveau buttons that feature faceted amethyst glass and beautifully patinaed open-work leaves. They appear to be original to the piece.

Measuring this piece was a bit difficult as the styling of the sleeves and the bodice look as if they were stolen by the 1980's. However, from the top of the shoulders, from armhole to armhole measures 18". The bust is a comfortable 36, perhaps 37"". The buttons hook, so can be moved a bit, and the bust is roomy. The second button is at the high waist and that measurement is approximately 28 1/2". The other two buttons are simply for decoration. Length of the jacket is 32" measured from the mid-shoulder to the hem. 16" sleeve measured from under the arm.

Purple wool with black chiaroscuro piping forms the wide collar and lapel, and is repeated with very cool geometric figures along the lower bodice and sleeves. Purple wool is also accenting the front and rear sides

CONDITION: the corduroy silk is in excellent condition. We cannot detect any flaws worth noting to this fabric. There are a some moth holes inside the lapel, perhaps one is noticeable, depending on how you were to wear the collar. The silk satin lining needs to be replaced, or at least removed. A few stitches needed at the cuffs and at one place along the curving seam in the front (where you might expect to find a pocket.)

A timeless and wearable piece with great structure and detail.