.. When I first set eyes on this cape I knew right away it could only be Cavalli. The leather label in the back of the neck is unpainted, so you can barely make out the imprint "Roberto Cavalli" but even if the label was gone, it is obvious it is his work. This is a design that would be right at home on any of his current runway shows.
.. The cape itself is made of suede. The suede has both strength and softness so it holds a structured shape around the body. Several pieces were sewn together, creating a subtle patchwork look along the bottom. The suede has a slightly mottled coloration, a heathered violet gray. It is a simple cape design, with closure under the arms for a "sleeve".
.. The "art" is just that. There are many fashion designers that are true artists, who make art from fabric... but Cavalli is an artist that actually uses the fabric as a canvas for his art. He was raised by his grandfather, Florintine impressionist Guiseppe Rossi who obviously gave young Roberto a healthy love of art. He attended the Academy of Art and very well could have had a promising career as a painter, but lucky for us he turned his passion towards fashion. As evident in everything from his jeans to his couture, Cavalli's artistry will always shine through his work.

.. The design on this cape strikes me as a cross between a antique painted kimono and Tattoo art. From the two bird figures on the back, the whole rest of the paining flows. The birds are some type of peacock, one dark, one light, with necks entwined. Their color and position reflect the yin and yang. Both figures strong and beautiful, neither one stronger or more dominant. Their wings and feathers spread from their bodies, to envelope the wearer in their grace and majesty.

.. The detail is astounding. Cavalli was (and still is) an innovator in fabric decorating. He actually invented, and patented this process of printing fine detail on leather. Even today, nobody can match the definition Cavalli attains in his printing.

.. Very few Cavalli leathers turn up for sale. I am not sure how many of each item was made, but I am sure it was not very many. I have never seen a cape like this before, though I do believe similar birds have been seen again on more modern Cavalli pieces.

.. The cape is sized small, but it really could be worn by any size as there are no formal shoulders.

.. The condition of this cape is excellent. There are a few natural flaws in the suede, but that is to be expected. The cape is very clean, and shows no signs of wear at all.