2025 Theme: Lucie Rosen, Woman of Style
Intended for a graduate student or recent graduate, the Caramoor Summer Research Fellowship allows for a short-term, sustained period of study at a highly unique historic site, situated in Katonah, New York. A stipend of $3,500 is offered (payment to be made in installments). The theme of the fellowship in 2025 is the wardrobe of Lucie Bigelow Rosen, which contains examples of the work of Mariano Fortuny and Ethel Wallace, as well as dressmakers from Henri Bendel and other retailers in New York and Europe. Currently, the collection of Mrs. Rosen’s clothing and accessories (about 160 items) is minimally cataloged. The 2025 fellow will examine the garments and accessories, assess condition, improve catalog records, and conduct research into designers and labels to enhance catalog records. The Rosen House archive will be a primary source for research, with ample opportunities to consult outside sources. This research will inform and support plans for conservation and a future special focus tour.
The fellow will have access to the archives at the Rosen House and work closely with Jessa Krick, Director of Interpretation, Collection and Archives. Research will be carried out in person, during a period of three months (ideally June-August 2025), on a schedule to be worked out by the research fellow and staff at the Rosen House. Some additional travel to other collections/libraries (local and/or in New York City) may be necessary.
This opportunity is well suited to a graduate student with knowledge of fashion history and some prior experience in handling and cataloging garments and accessories. In addition to catalog records, the products of the fellowship are three blog posts (approx. 500-700 words each), and a presentation in September 2025.
Those interested in fashion history, archives, and/or museum studies are encouraged to apply. Strong writing skills are an asset for applicants.
Requirements for application:
- Letter of interest, including reason for application and description of relevant study and/or topics of special interest.
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Short writing sample (approximately 300-500 words)
- Two letters of reference from recent professors and/or relevant work supervisors
Deadline for applications: January 17, 2025
Application materials to be sent to personnel@caramoor.org
Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee. Top candidates will be invited to interview over Zoom before a final decision is made.
About the Rosen House:
The former home of Walter (1875-1951) and Lucie Rosen (1890-1968), music patrons and art collectors who established a legacy of music performance at the site which has been ongoing for 79 years, the Rosen House at Caramoor Center for Music & the Arts is a unique setting for a collection of art ranging from Italian Renaissance painting to Qing Dynasty jade carvings. The collection includes examples of paintings, sculpture, ceramics, and textiles, plus garments and accessories from Mrs. Rosen. Displayed in period rooms outfitted with architectural elements and wallcoverings such as 17th-century Italian carved paneling, French painted cabinetry of the 1700s and Chinese export wallpaper, the collection represents the eclectic eye of Walter and Lucie in outfitting their country home for themselves and for their guests. The extensive archive contains correspondence between members of the extended Rosen family and a wide circle of their friends and acquaintances in the fields of art, music and business, as well as supporting materials, including diaries, datebooks and photographs.
Project outcomes:
- Complete catalog records for approximately 160 objects, including full descriptions of garments, identification of major textile components, documentation of labels and condition notes (PastPerfect database).
- Three blog posts suitable for a general audience (500-700 words each). One post due mid-way through fellowship period.
- Short presentation to select staff and Rosen House Committee (September 2025).
