Het nut eener crinoline c. 1843 - 1920

"Het nut eener crinoline" (The Usefulness of a Crinoline), created by Hermann van der Moolen (1828-1892) c. 1843-1920, is a satirical illustration that humorously depicts the various ways a crinoline, a stiff, bell-shaped skirt worn in the 19th century, can be used for unexpected purposes. The artwork features a series of scenes depicting a woman in a crinoline, ranging from acting as a shield from a storm to functioning as a makeshift bird's nest. This humorous take on fashion trends of the time is characteristic of van der Moolen's style and showcases the social commentary embedded in his work.