Shirtwaist 1935 - 1942

Julie C. Brush rendered this watercolor of a shirtwaist, likely at the turn of the century. Observe how the lace adorning the garment isn't merely decorative; it's a potent symbol of status and refinement. This use of lace can be traced back centuries, from the ruffs of the Elizabethan era to the delicate trims of the Rococo period. Consider the elaborate costumes worn in Renaissance portraits, where lace signified wealth and sophistication. Think of the paintings by Bronzino, where even male subjects are adorned with intricate lace collars, telegraphing their noble status. The shirtwaist in Brush’s painting is less ostentatious, yet the lace evokes similar associations of elegance and gentility, adapted to a more modern context. The reappearance of lace across different eras reveals how cultural memory is embedded in visual symbols. These motifs aren't just superficial decorations; they carry profound emotional and psychological weight.