Coiled Corset, Shaun Leane

Composed of 97 aluminum coils fitted exactly to model Laura Morgan's dimensions; formed in front and back sections, held together by 11 brackets from neck to hem, lined with strips of black tape to prevent it from cutting into the model, rear right hip engraved 'Shaun Leane' above 'Alexander McQueen 99,' bust 36 inches, waist 27 ½ inches, height 25 inches.

Savage Beauty, Metropolitan Museum of Art, 4 May - 7 August, 2011 and Victoria & Albert Museum, 14 March - 2 August, 2015.

Anglomania, Tradition & Transgression in British Fashion, Metropolitan Museum of Art, 3 May - 4 September, 2006.

In good condition, with 97 aluminum coils bent to fit model Laura Morgan's dimensions. A plaster cast was taken of Morgan's form, translated into a concrete mold by Kees van der Graaf, and used by Shaun Leane to shape the metal coils. Lined with strips of black tape to prevent it cutting into the model. Front and back sections held together by 11 struts from neck to hem. Signed 'Shaun Leane' above 'Alexander McQueen 99' on the right rear hip. Measuring approximately 36 inches around the bust, 27 ½ inches around the waist, and 25 inches in height.
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‘This is a piece I am very proud of. It is a great example of our collaboration. The corset is a balance between something hard and structured like armor – and the soft, sensuous curves of the female form. We took the concept we had initiated in the Burmese coiled collar (worn by the singer Bjork, see Lot 33) and pushed the boundaries further, expanding the idea of tribal decoration to cover the entire torso.  Lee was always very proud of the works I created for him, but amidst the post-show mayhem and celebrations he came over and told me that this piece blew him away – hence his request that we both sign it.’ S.L.

Created for Alexander McQueen's 'The Overlook' Collection, Autumn/Winter 1999-2000. The only piece ever signed and dated by both Leane and McQueen.