Chanel's Russian Connection

Chanel's Russian Connection by Karl Lagerfeld

Paris-Moscou

Russian Connection is Karl Lagerfeld's exploration of all things Russian. The book presents photos by Lagerfeld centered around Paris-Moscou, his 2008/2009 Metiers d'Arts collection for Chanel, showcasing the fastidious workmanship of the Parisian ateliers that provide couture houses with decorative specialities such as artificial flowers, embroidery, feathers, costume jewelry, shoes and hats.

Lagerfeld's vision is panoptic, from Catherine the Great to Faberge, from Russian Folklore to Coco Chanel's own passion for Russia including the Ballets Russes, Byzantine jewelry and her affair with the Grand Duke Dimitri Pavlovitch.

Images courtesy of Steidl