Het Toilet, 15 juni 1879, No. 12 1879

E. Cheffer made this print, "Het Toilet," in the Netherlands in 1879. The title, "Het Toilet," refers to the ritual of dressing and grooming, and the image shows two women in elaborately fashionable dresses. These kinds of images, which were popular in the late 19th century, offer insights into the social codes and aspirations of the time. This print, in particular, provides a glimpse into the world of bourgeois women and their engagement with fashion. During this time, fashion magazines and journals played a crucial role in disseminating trends and shaping consumer desires. The image suggests that clothing served as a marker of social status, reflecting the economic and cultural capital of the women and their families. The level of detail in their dresses reflects the rapidly expanding textile industries during the Industrial Revolution. Historians interested in prints like this one can consult a range of period sources: fashion magazines, personal letters, and business records. Examining these sources can help us understand the intersection of art, commerce, and social identity in the late 19th century.