Très Parisien, 1925, No. 1, Pl. 12.- POUR RECEVOIR. 1925

Curator: Here we have "Très Parisien, 1925, No. 1, Pl. 12.- POUR RECEVOIR.," a drawing and print by G-P. Joumard, currently held in the Rijksmuseum collection. It offers us a peek into the fashion of the Roaring Twenties through its art deco style. What are your initial thoughts? Editor: Oh, I’m immediately getting this jazzy, flapper-era vibe! All angles and sleek lines. And the colours! That dreamy turquoise juxtaposed with the sharp black and white pattern – it’s like a cocktail dress and a smoke-filled cabaret all rolled into one. Curator: It certainly encapsulates the era. The print appeared as a plate in a periodical; these images played a key role in shaping and disseminating the Parisian style across the world, turning Paris into the undisputed fashion capital. Editor: Right! Fashion magazines, socialites, jazz… it was a cultural earthquake. The hemlines rising as fast as hemlines are falling these days... It's not just clothes; it is a proclamation of change! Look at the nonchalant poses—a total departure from the buttoned-up Victorian era! Curator: Indeed, Joumard's fashion sketches often highlight these modern social shifts. Notice the attention to detail in fabrics and patterns – that was crucial for appealing to the wealthy clientele who would want to purchase these designs. Editor: Absolutely. This isn’t just about showing a pretty dress. The drawing almost vibrates with texture! The textures feel sumptuous, opulent! I imagine the rustle of silk, the flash of sequins... The sketch, therefore, acted as almost a form of advertising, fueling consumer culture. It’s brilliant how it captures aspiration and elegance! Curator: I agree. It underscores the symbiotic relationship between art, commerce, and society during the Art Deco period. And in this image the artist showcased this synergy. Editor: You know, it’s incredible how a simple sketch can unpack all of that! These figures may not breathe or emote like figures of romanticist portraits. But they embody something much larger. They embody an age on the move! An age trying something new and shiny and just, fabulously, them! Curator: A fabulous observation indeed! Editor: Cheers to that!