Klederdracht van eiland Zuid-Beveland in Zeeland, 1857 1857

Ruurt de Vries created this print in 1857, showcasing the traditional costumes of Zuid-Beveland in Zeeland. It was made using lithography, a process that allows for detailed, reproducible images. What strikes me most is how this print acts as a record of craft and its cultural significance. Each element of the clothing, from the bonnets to the metal clasps, represents countless hours of skilled labor. The materiality of the costumes speaks volumes about the community’s values, the availability of resources, and the importance of visual identity. Consider the textures of the fabrics, likely linen and wool, reflecting local agriculture. Notice too the metalwork – these weren't mere decorations; they signified status and were passed down through generations. The print itself, through its methods of production, also mirrors the rise of industrialization and its impact on traditional crafts. This image isn't just a depiction of clothing; it's a document of material culture, craftsmanship, and social identity, capturing a moment in time when these traditions were both celebrated and challenged by the forces of modernity.