Journal des Dames et des Modes, Costumes Parisiens, 1913, No. 79 : Robe de crêp (...) 1913

Editor: This watercolour illustration, "Journal des Dames et des Modes, Costumes Parisiens, 1913, No. 79: Robe de crêpe...", created in 1913 by Victor Lhuer, presents such a delicate image of high fashion. It seems like it’s capturing a very specific, privileged lifestyle. What are your thoughts on this piece? Curator: My initial reaction goes beyond lifestyle and into the labour and materials involved in its production. This image is, fundamentally, an advertisement. Note the precise depiction of the 'Robe de crepe de Chine' alongside 'sac et ceinture brodés de perles' (bag and belt embroidered with pearls), hinting at global trade networks supplying the Parisian fashion industry. Consider also the artist, Victor Lhuer, a skilled worker translating material aspiration into visual form. Editor: I hadn’t thought about it as an advertisement, but that makes perfect sense. So, beyond the visual appeal, you are interested in understanding the economics embedded in the work? Curator: Precisely. And beyond economics, the social context. This image was disseminated through a printed journal - how were these journals produced, distributed and consumed? To whom did these images appeal and what sort of cultural capital was assigned to them? How does that then impact women? Does it objectify women? What choices were they making by adopting a certain image? This single illustration provides us with much to think about! Editor: So, by examining the materials and its function within the social structure of 1913, we gain a deeper understanding. Thank you, I never considered fashion illustration as a starting point to explore broader social and economic narratives. Curator: Indeed. Material culture offers incredibly rich insight. Every thread tells a story!