Mof en stola van bont 1645

Wenceslaus Hollar created this delicate etching of a fur muff and stole sometime in the 17th century. Born in Prague, Hollar spent much of his career in England, documenting the life and fashions of the aristocracy. Considered a master of detail, Hollar’s print offers insight into the visual culture of his time, when fur accessories were potent symbols of wealth and status. More than that, they speak to the tactile and sensory experiences of the elite. Think about the way the soft fur would feel against the skin, offering warmth and comfort. However, this comfort came at a cost, one directly related to the exploitation of animals for luxury. As such, the image prompts a critical look at the ethical implications of luxury and the environmental impact of fashion. What is the emotional cost, even then, of adorning oneself in fur?