La Mode Illustrée; Journal de la Famille, No. 9, 4 mars 1900 Possibly 1900 - 1904

This is the cover of 'La Mode Illustrée', a French fashion magazine, printed in 1900 by Firmin-Didot & Cie. It exemplifies how print media shaped social ideals and gender roles at the turn of the century. The magazine’s title, adorned with images of leisure and domesticity, suggests its focus on presenting an aspirational lifestyle for the contemporary family. The image of a woman elegantly dressed, absorbed in reading a letter, projects an ideal of feminine refinement and private contemplation. Such magazines, distributed widely, played a crucial role in disseminating fashion trends and cultural values across social classes. By examining archival sources, like subscription records and editorial policies, we can better understand the complex interplay between commerce, aesthetics, and social norms. This cover reflects the historical context and shows us how media actively constructs and reinforces cultural identities.