Ornatus Muliebris Anglicanus (The Clothing of English Women) 1638 - 1640
wenceslaushollar
pencil drawn
light pencil work
pencil sketch
charcoal drawing
portrait reference
idea generation sketch
pencil drawing
limited contrast and shading
portrait drawing
pencil work
dress
Wenceslaus Hollar’s *Ornatus Muliebris Anglicanus* (The Clothing of English Women) is an etching from 1638-1640, depicting a woman in fashionable attire of the time. The etching showcases the intricate details of her clothing, including a lace collar and cuffs, a fur muff, and a richly draped gown. This work is part of a larger series of etchings by Hollar, which document the diverse and fashionable attire worn in England during the 17th century. The etching is a fine example of Hollar’s skill in capturing the details of both clothing and human form, making it a valuable resource for understanding fashion history.
Comments
The diversity of women’s apparel in England is illustrated in this extensive costume series. Hollar represented women from all ranks of society, from the humble countrywoman 1 to the elegant noblewoman 2. The more fashionable costumes are based on eyewitness observation of the ladies at the court of the Earl of Arundel, Hollar’s primary patron. They are therefore among the more reliable visual sources for costume historians.
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