De Bazar, 1883, Nr. 13, Pl. 542 1883

This print titled "De Bazar" was created in 1883 by an anonymous artist. The image is produced by chromolithography, a relatively new process at the time, which allowed for multiple colors to be printed quickly and cheaply. This was a boon for the fashion industry, as it meant that magazines could show readers the latest styles in vivid detail. The dresses depicted are elaborate, with lots of draping and embellishment. Notice the different textures, from the smooth silk of the skirts to the lacy trim of the sleeves. These are not just clothes; they are status symbols. They speak volumes about the wearers’ wealth and social standing. The fact that this print was made for a magazine called "De Bazar" is also significant. The word "bazar" suggests a place of commerce and exchange, which is exactly what fashion was becoming in the late 19th century: a global industry fueled by the labor of countless workers.