Dieppe Woman 1649

Wenceslaus Hollar etched this portrait of a "Dieppe Woman" in 1649, capturing her distinctive attire. The most striking feature is the head covering, a dense veil or shawl that envelops her head and shoulders. This covering isn’t merely functional; it speaks volumes about cultural identity. The gesture of concealing the head has deep roots, appearing across various cultures and epochs. We see echoes of it in religious garments, like the veils of nuns or the headscarves worn in many Islamic societies. These aren't just about modesty. They signify identity and belonging to a specific community. Consider the psychological dimension: a concealed head invites curiosity. The covered form can evoke feelings of mystery, and perhaps even alienation. In this small etching, Hollar encapsulates a world of cultural meaning and unspoken emotions. A reminder that what we choose to conceal can be as expressive as what we reveal.