Gallerie des Modes et Costumes Français, 1779, cc 158 : Robe de tafetas (...) 1779

Charles Emmanuel Patas created this print titled, Gallerie des Modes et Costumes Français in 1779. The composition is dominated by the figure of a woman, elegantly dressed and holding a musical instrument, set against a neutral backdrop that directs our attention to the details of her attire and posture. The contrasting shades define the intricate patterns of her gown and the elaborate details of her hat. Patas masterfully uses line and texture to depict the luxurious fabrics and ornamental elements, conveying a sense of the era’s aesthetic values and social stratification. Each stroke appears deliberate, illustrating not just fashion but also the cultural codes embedded in the visual representation of identity and status. The meticulous detailing suggests the fashion of the French court while also hinting at the complex interplay between visibility and representation. Note the careful balance between form and function: the figure is posed, which reinforces the print’s purpose as a document of high fashion. The deliberate arrangement invites a deeper understanding of the semiotic system at play, where clothing functions as a signifier of identity and cultural values.