Goed geklede man en vrouw 1829 - 1830

Charles Philipon made this print in the Netherlands, showing a well-dressed man and woman. It embodies the satirical wit that characterized much of his work. The print likely originates from the early 19th century, a period marked by significant social and political upheaval in Europe. France, in particular, was emerging from the shadow of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic era. During this time, there was a growing emphasis on fashion as a means of expressing social status and political affiliation. Philipon cleverly exploits these sartorial codes, exaggerating the styles of the day to humorous effect. The title of the print translates to 'So this is the most gracious people on earth?' suggesting a critique of the superficiality and pretension of the bourgeoisie. To fully understand the print's nuances, we must delve into the history of fashion and the social norms of the time. We can consult period newspapers, fashion plates, and social commentaries to reconstruct the context in which Philipon's work would have been viewed.