Drie kostuumstudies 1844 - 1896

Willem de Famars Testas made this study of three costumes, with graphite on paper, sometime in the 19th century. The graphite gives a ghostly appearance to the drawings; an effect perhaps enhanced by the fact that they are costume studies and not portraits. These are not just freehand sketches. They likely derive from observation, of the garments themselves, or perhaps of fashion plates. We can imagine Testas carefully depicting the cut and ornament of these garments, the graphite stick moving across the page. Of course, each of these dresses represents an enormous amount of labor. Every element, from the textiles themselves to the lace and trim, would have involved skilled work. It’s easy to overlook this aspect of clothing, given its ubiquity and affordability today, but for much of history, getting dressed was a material accomplishment in itself. Testas prompts us to reflect on this process. Understanding the materials and making of historical objects allows us to more fully appreciate their cultural and social significance.