Musée des Familles, Janvier 1857, No. 4, 8me Année : Modes Vraies, Travail en famille 1857

"Musée des Familles, Janvier 1857, No. 4, 8me Année : Modes Vraies, Travail en famille," a fashion plate by Jean-Charles-Michel Barreau, depicts a group of individuals in elaborate 19th-century attire. The men are dressed in fashionable coats and trousers while the women showcase the latest trends in dresses, featuring full skirts, intricate details, and elegant accessories. This lithograph, a common medium for fashion illustration in the 19th century, served as a guide to the latest fashion for a wide audience. The image reflects the growing popularity of fashion publications, which played a significant role in disseminating trends and influencing the sartorial choices of the time. This particular plate, published in the 1857 edition of the "Musée des Familles," highlights the importance of family and work in the context of fashion, showcasing a range of attire suitable for various social occasions and occupations. The artwork's detailed depiction of clothing styles and accessories provides a glimpse into the fashion sensibilities of mid-19th-century France.