This striking evening dress made of bright green satin and black chiffon belonged to Vera Karakhan, the wife of a prominent diplomat. Skilful use is made here of fabrics with contrasting colours and different textures, when the gleam of the green satin through the translucent black chiffon engenders a special decorative effect. This dulls the brightness of the green and only the bottom of the skirt, left free of chiffon, forms a sort of chromatic highlight in the whole composition. The austere, elegant silhouette with a slightly elevated waist is clear evidence of the influence of Empire-period costumes, while the embroidery in golden-green silk and gold thread forming a pattern of chrysanthemum flowers and leaves is typically Art Nouveau in both the treatment of plant forms and the choice of colours. The design of the skirt of this dress - draping in a spiral - is also original. A small overskirt, tight on the hips, that is made to imitate a shawl with tassels, turns into a small, sharply pointed train.