ellen terry as lady macbeth in 1888a victorian dress made from 1,000 beetle wings that was worn by one of the most famous actresses of the era has been restored at a cost of £50,000. the emerald & sea green gown - worn by ellen terry when she played lady macbeth at london's lyceum theatre in 1888 - will now go on display in smallhythe place, kent, england.
it is covered is with the iridescent wings of the jewel beetle which the insects naturally shed as part of their life cycle. it was one of the most iconic & celebrated theatre costumes of the time, immortalized by a john singer sargent portrait now on display at the tate gallery. read more here.