Fashion illustration, no. 2224 1885

Fashion illustration no. 2224 by Jules David was made with watercolor and graphite on paper. The delicate washes of color create a scene of apparent leisure. Yet, it is also a document of the garment industry, which was undergoing significant change at the time. The textile production, the elaborate trimmings, and the making of each garment would have involved many hands, from factory workers to seamstresses working in sweatshops or from their homes. David’s watercolor gives us a glimpse into the world of fashion production and consumption, reflecting the growing availability of consumer goods and the evolving role of fashion in defining social status. In this light, the image is more than just an aesthetic portrayal; it embodies the complex relationship between art, labor, and material culture. By understanding the social context and the labor involved, we gain a deeper appreciation of the artwork.