Fortuny Gowns Unveiled at Hammond Castle
Two Fortuny gowns, a remarkable discovery made at the Hammond Castle by a visiting collection's specialist from the MFA were unveiled last night in the Castle's Grand Hall. What a perfect setting for these two gowns once worn by Irene Fenton Hammond, wife of John Hammond. Mariano Fortuny, (1871-1949) was one of those rare geniuses renowned for his work in many disciplines—painter, inventor, scientist, textile artist and innovator of women's clothing. He and CoCo Chanel can be thanked for releasing women from the corseted fashion still dominant at the beginning of the 20th century. His inspiration were silhouettes from the classical Greeks interpreted through the rich, lavish textile aesthetics of Venice. The entertainment and social elite became his devoted patrons. The Fortuny Museum in Venice helped establish the provenance of these two gowns and their need for restoration. One can only imagine the sublime experience of wearing a Fortuny gown in the Castle's oceanside dining room, with Greta Garbo and Walt Disney at the table. Hammond Castle holds many memories.
