Sketches for Two Muffs and a Parasol 1785 - 1790

This sheet of sketches with pen and watercolor wash is an intimate glimpse into the world of fashion and identity. The anonymous artist captures a parasol and two muffs, objects that, beyond their practical uses, were potent symbols of femininity, status, and perhaps even resistance. These accessories weren't just about keeping the sun off one's skin or hands warm. They were tools for navigating social spaces, signaling one's position and aspirations within a rigid social hierarchy. In a time when women's roles were narrowly defined, such objects became a language, a way to express individuality within the confines of expectation. The handwritten notes accompanying the sketches invite us into the artist's thought process, adding another layer to our understanding. It's a reminder that even seemingly decorative items can be imbued with meaning. The sketches invite us to reflect on the objects that shape our own identities.