1780 Michelle de Bonneuil -Violet Griotte

1780s Violet Griotte Floral Cotton for Caraco & Petticoat

This elegant floral design is inspired by an original late 18th-century textile fragment preserved in museum collections. This version presents a refined Violet Griotte colourway, where soft purple tones meet delicate florals and ribbons, creating a harmonious and expressive 18th-century palette.

The composition of flowing ribbons, detailed floral bouquets, and scattered butterflies reflects the lightness and decorative charm of the 1780s. The gentle movement in the design gives the fabric a lively yet balanced character, typical of late Rococo aesthetics.

Well suited for

Perfect for caraco jackets, petticoats, and lighter 18th-century ensembles. Also well suited for informal gowns and layered outfits where softness, movement, and decorative detail are desired.

Design & Historical Context

The original textile reflects traditional chintz techniques, where colours were applied in layers to build depth and variation. This interpretation highlights violet tonal richness combined with fine line work, maintaining the historical balance between structure and ornament typical of the late 18th century.

Reference Person
Michelle Sentuary (1748–1827), later known as Madame de Bonneuil, moved within the cultural and political circles of the late 18th century. Her life reflects the complexity and elegance of the era, making her a fitting reference for textiles rooted in this expressive and refined period.