Portret van Gustave Wappers c. 1825 - 1827

This is a print of Gustave Wappers, made by Jean-Baptiste Madou, and kept at the Rijksmuseum. Notice Wapper's formal attire. His coat, waistcoat, and cravat are potent symbols of the bourgeois, and the rising middle class of the 19th century. Consider how such garments have echoed through time. The waistcoat and cravat, in particular, evoke a sense of formality. One could see vestiges of this in the 20th century in the attire of businessmen and politicians—symbols of power and respectability. Yet, these symbols evolve. Think of the modern suit, which, while derived from similar origins, carries different connotations today. It might signify corporate power, conformity, or even rebellion when worn unconventionally. These sartorial choices speak volumes about societal values, class structures, and the individual's place within them, triggering a chain of collective memories and subconscious associations. The image engages viewers on a deep level. The formal attire is not merely clothing but a powerful signifier of status. The cravat, waistcoat, and coat have resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in different historical contexts.