How Balenciaga Was Inspired by the Old Masters | Christie’s

Christie’s Old Masters Specialist Jonquil O’Reilly and exhibition curator Eloy Martínez de la Pera tour ’Balenciaga and Spanish Painting’ in Madrid and discuss the influence of Old Master paintings on the iconic designer’s creations. Spanish-born Cristóbal Balenciaga (1895-1972), described by Christian Dior as ‘the master of us all’, was one of the most admired and influential fashion designers of all time. ’Balenciaga and Spanish Painting’ (18 June- 22 Sept 2019), a fabulous new exhibition at Madrid’s Thyssen-Bornemisza museum, takes a look at the art historical influences on the fashion great’s celebrated creations. The designer constantly studied the history of art and made use of the imagery he found, from the minimalist lines of religious habits to the black-on-black aesthetic of Habsburg court dress. Find out more: -- Subscribe to Christie’s YouTube: Sign up to Christie’s Weekly: Follow Christie’s on: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: Pinterest: