Le Moniteur de la Mode, 1879, No. 1660 : Toilettes de Mad.me Morison (...) 1879

This fashion plate, "Le Moniteur de la Mode, 1879, No. 1660", now residing in the Rijksmuseum, presents an intriguing study in line, color, and form. The composition is divided vertically, with two figures occupying separate yet connected spaces, rendered in contrasting palettes. On the left, a figure in a pink striped gown stands against a muted background, while to the right, a seated woman’s blue dress provides a stark contrast, each articulated with intricate detail and texture. The artist uses line to define the figures, and to create depth, especially in the elaborate folds and frills of the dresses. The two figures and the division of space may suggest a semiotic exploration of femininity and fashion. The contrast between the vertical and horizontal orientations, along with the varying textures of the fabrics, invites us to consider how these visual elements challenge conventional representations of beauty and elegance. Notice how the geometric patterns and organic shapes in the textiles create a dynamic interplay, inviting ongoing interpretation.