Petit Courrier des Dames, 1826, No. 439 : Robe de Barège garnie de Volans (...) 1826

This fashion plate, made in France in 1826, is a hand-colored engraving from the Petit Courrier des Dames, a popular magazine. It presents an aspirational image of feminine style for the consumption of a growing middle class. Fashion plates like this one served a crucial role in shaping the culture of 19th-century Europe. The detailed depiction of clothing, fabrics, and accessories provided a visual language for understanding social status and cultural values. Note the emphasis on luxury fabrics, delicate ornamentation, and the careful arrangement of ribbons and lace. These weren't just about aesthetics. They communicated a complex message about the wearer's position in society. The Petit Courrier des Dames was one of a number of influential magazines that shaped consumer desires. Publications like these helped to fuel the growing textile industry and promote a culture of consumption. To better understand the world of this image, explore the history of fashion magazines, textile manufacturing, and the social history of 19th-century France.