Particularly popular in eighteenth-century France, the masquerade, or masked ball, drew large crowds and gave rise to a specific type of garment called the domino. A full-length, hooded silk gown that covers the clothes beneath entirely, a domino preserves the anonymity of the man or woman who wears it.
Designed by Pierre-Thomas Le Clerc (French, Paris 1740–1796), engraved by Jean-François Janinet (French, Paris 1752–1814), Gallerie des modes et costumes français. 39e. Cahier des Costumes Français. 34e. Suite d'Habillemens les plus à la mode. 252, ca. 1783.
Text from: Ruffles & Ribbons: Fashion Plates from the Time of Marie Antoinette. © 2026 The Frick Collection.