AW94 Roberto Cavalli ‘Medieval’ Painting Landscape Denim

Known for his exotic prints, Roberto Cavalli can be accredited for pushing the boundaries of graphic design as early as the 1970s. Pioneering the “sand blasted” denim fade, his design ideals vastly contrasted the contemporary haute couture standards, citing interest in prints and pigment opposed to ‘elegant’ feminine cuts. Debuting long before counterparts like Jean Paul Gaultier, his distinct rebellion allowed for new techniques in patchwork and aging mediums, most notably with jean and leather textiles. Influencing a slew of trends in both the past and present, his utilitarian designs are often overshadowed by signature motifs, aiding in the development of Helmut Lang and Dolce & Gabbana’s respective niches.

 

Debuting in the Autumn of 1994, this pair of denim draws reference to traditional medieval paintings. Depicting a vast landscape riddled with knights and horseback, towards the waist shrubbery sits among buildings and townsmen. Moving downwards, we’re invited to gaze upon livestock and a singular dog, grazing among the depiction’s hectic atmosphere. To finish, metallic accents detail the red denim base, in pair with contrast stitching throughout. Fitting a size 32x30.5, in good condition throughout aside from light discolouration on the right thigh.