"Balenciaga, Working in Black" delves into the history of Cristobal Balenciaga's work with an exhibition of the designer's creations. For a little over four months, visitors can step into Musée Bourdelle to discover or rediscover emblematic garments, accessories and creations crafted by the famous Spanish designer. But this is no ordinary retrospective, as each piece has been selected to reflect the designer's mastery of the many subtleties of black, his favorite shade.

Silhouettes, volume, light

From canvas creations, patterns, volumes, sculptural silhouettes and the importance of proportions to draped black fabric, black and white contrasts, the interplay of light and refined simplicity, the exhibition explores all aspects of the Spanish designer's skills and expertise, taking visitors from the museum's Great Hall to its contemporary Portzamparc wing.

More than a mere theme, black is the star of the show—the center of attention—showcased in the infinite nuances explored by Balenciaga, with opaque, matte, sheer, shiny and radiant effects. 

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Over a hundred pieces from the Galliera collections and the Balenciaga fashion house's archives will go on public display, including boleros, mantillas, cape-coats, suits, jackets, cocktail dresses and eveningwear, finished with luxury details such as satin ribbons, beads and sequins.

The exhibition opens as Maison Balenciaga, founded in 1917, celebrates its centenary year. It also launches Palais Galliera's Spanish season, which will continue with "Habits aux couleurs de l'Espagne" ("Clothes in Spanish Tones") at the Maison Victor Hugo (June 21 to September 24, 2017) and will close with "Mariano Fortuny" at Palais Galliera (October 7, 2017 to January 7, 2018).

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