Elegantia, of tijdschrift van mode, luxe en smaak voor dames, December 1808, No. 63: Toque de velours... 1808

This print, made in 1808 by an anonymous artist, depicts an elegant woman's fashion from the Dutch magazine 'Elegantia'. It reflects the cultural values of the time, where fashion played a significant role in expressing social status and taste. The print showcases a woman in a 'Toque de velours, Redingote à la Polonaise', highlighting the luxurious materials and intricate design that were fashionable among the elite. The magazine itself, "Elegantia", was an institution that shaped and disseminated these trends. Its existence points to the growing importance of fashion as a commodity and a form of cultural expression. Consider the socio-political context: the Napoleonic era influenced fashion trends across Europe. The "Redingote à la Polonaise" suggests an interest in foreign styles, perhaps reflecting the cosmopolitan nature of the Dutch elite. Historical sources like fashion magazines, personal letters, and economic records can give us a deeper understanding of the social conditions that shaped this artwork and its cultural impact. Artworks like this are valuable records of cultural and institutional history.