Pingat, Emile

Emile Pingat (1820-1901) was a premier French couturier and a contemporary of Charles Frederick Worth. Active from about 1860 to 1896, Pingat was ranked by contemporary writers as one of the top three couturiers in Paris alongside Worth and Laferrière. A master designer, his garments were of the highest level of construction and quality. He was especially skilled at surface ornamentation and usage of color. While he became particularly known for his incredibly detailed and brilliantly trimmed capes, jackets and dolmans, his gowns were also prized and equally regarded. His designs were licensed and copies were made in the US.

The House of Pingat enters the records in the 1860 Paris Directory as Pingat, Hudson et Cie 30 rue Louis-le-Grand in Paris. By 1864 Hudson is gone, and it is Emile Pingat & Cie. He remained at the address until 1896, when he turned over his house to A. Wallès et Cie of 15 rue Auber, who moved to the rue Louis-le-Grand. At this time the label changed to Maison Emile Pingat A. Wallès et Cie 30 Rue Louis le Grand Paris. This version of the house continued on into the 20th Century.

E. Pingat is shown in the Paris Trade Directory without a specified profession in 1898, and as retired in 1901–02.

Written by Hollis Jenkins-Evans

In use 1876-1890 – from a late-1890s / early-1890s mourning bodice

Courtesy of Mark E. Tillson Jr.

In use 1885-1895 – from a c. 1890 evening mantle

Courtesy of Augusta Auctions

In use 1885-1895 — from a late-1880s / early-1890s mourning cape

Courtesy of Mark E. Tillson Jr.

In use 1890-1896 – from a late-1890s / early-1890s mourning cape

Courtesy of Mark E. Tillson Jr.

from a c. 1896-1900 evening capelet

Courtesy of Augusta Auctions