Empress Elisabeth of Austria – an elegant summer dress, circa 1860/70 The bodice made of white silk, covered in gauzy silk chiffon embroidered with floral décor. The lapel and the continuous collar made of fine, floral bobbin lace, decorated en suite at the waistband and on the cuffs. Additional decorative ribbons in red and white woven silk with stitched loops below the collar, on the right lapel and on the sleeves. 14 silk-covered buttons, with two reinforcements sewn in on both sides below the bust, probably made of whalebone. A label reading "Privatfond I.K.K. Majestät No. 4593" stitched on the inside. In immaculate condition. The skirt with a train of white silk chiffon, embroidered with circular and oval ornamental elements, lavish leafy vines and flowers. A double border of lace-trimmed, pleated silk chiffon on the hem. The seam has come apart in places. The waistband made of salmon-coloured silk with three hooks. Includes the drawstring underskirt of white silk chiffon (stained) with a label "Privatfond I.K.K. Majestät No. 4595" stitched inside. An exquisite, early summer dress worn by the Empress, overall in beautiful condition. Provenance: Hermann Historica, 24th Auction in May 1991, when it was offered as a set with the elegant cape in the style of a Hungarian hussar's pelisse (auction 89, lot 4132). Part of a private German collection since 1991. Condition: II