Valentino as “The Young Raja”
Silent screen heartthrob Rudolph Valentino was the king of Hollywood when he made the movie, “The Young Raja” in 1922. Although the film was considered lost for decades, parts have survived and been restored. I was thrilled to find a video on YouTube that features stills presented sequentially, along with several lost clips.
Surviving Film Clips of Assiut in Motion c. 1922
Fast forward to about the 12 min mark or Visit the TCM website for the best quality video of the scene “I am a Fatalist” to see this magnificent assiut jacket in motion. Although the film is grainy and damaged, you can see the luxurious shine and the liquid metal drape of this cloth. This jacket is even more magnificent in the promotional stills.
Fitted Jacket in Assiut
These two images are my favorites that have survived. In this profile image, you can see how the unknown costume designer has lined this jacket. This not only gives the assiut textile support for this tailored style, but it also helps enhance the contrast and make the metal design pop.
In the front-facing image below, you can really see the style lines and the way the designer placed each motif and geometric pattern to enhance the shape of Valentino’s physique. The diamond patterns on the sleeves visually broaden his shoulders. While the vertical placement of long style lines down the front of the jacket emphasizes his height.
Want some more vintage assiut? Check installments of this series:
- Lina Murari
- Dagny Servaes
- Yvonne Gall
- Want more? just type in “Who’s that Girl” in the search bar.
The design of this coat is absolutely inspiring. I will have to buy a large and glamorous modern assiut shawl to make one of these for myself! To learn more about this Valentino film “The Young Raja” on IMDB and Wikipedia.
Happy Dance and Costuming,
Dawn Devine ~ Davina – January 30, 2022
