Journal des Dames et des Modes, Costume Parisien, 15 juillet 1809, (989): Cornette en remplis (...) 1809

Pierre Charles Baquoy's hand-colored engraving from 1809 depicts a woman in Parisian fashion, showcasing the era's sartorial elegance. The gesture of donning gloves carries a wealth of historical significance. This seemingly simple act transcends mere practicality. Think of the ritualistic hand gestures in Renaissance portraiture, such as the concealing or revealing of hands that symbolized power, status, and hidden intentions. Similarly, the woman's gesture here might allude to the societal rituals of presentation and the subtle power dynamics inherent in fashionable display. The concealing of the skin beneath gloves may have held psychological meanings, suggesting both a desire for protection and a sense of refined modesty. Throughout the ages, the act of covering and adorning oneself has served as a powerful form of self-expression and cultural communication, which continues to resonate today.