Mercatoris Parisiensis Vxor / Merchants wife of Paris 1643

Wenceslaus Hollar's etching "Mercatoris Parisiensis Vxor" (1643) portrays a merchant's wife from Paris. The image offers a glimpse into 17th-century fashion, showcasing the woman's elaborate dress with a wide collar, a tightly laced bodice, and a flowing skirt. Hollar, a renowned etcher, was known for his detailed and meticulous work. The etching's delicate lines capture the folds and textures of the woman's garments, providing a vivid representation of the period's sartorial style. "Mercatoris Parisiensis Vxor" serves as a valuable visual document of everyday life in 17th-century Paris.