Très Parisien, 1923, No 10: 3.- TIMIDITÉ. - Ce long fourreau... 1923

Curator: Let’s take a look at this drawing from 1923, "Trés Parisien, No 10: 3. - TIMIDITÉ. - Ce long fourreau..." Currently held at the Rijksmuseum, it's a remarkable piece illustrating fashion in the Art Deco era, rendered in ink and watercolor. Editor: Ooh, stylish! But "timidity?" That bold graphic shadow says anything but. Look at the flapper's posture – almost challenging you, all cheekbones and perfectly placed hands. Ironic, really, I adore it. Curator: Well, the title is indeed intriguing when contrasted with the model's apparent confidence. "Ce long fourreau"—"This long sheath"—likely refers to the dress itself, an iconic garment of the period, reflecting the societal shifts empowering women at the time. The drawing, while seemingly simple, participates in the commercialization of Parisian chic, setting trends. Editor: Exactly! Think about the context. Women were ditching the corsets for slinky dresses. The dress, which *sheath* really understates, is all sinuous curves and shimmering fabrics, reflecting the energy of jazz. The artist probably aims to encapsulate the elusive quality of *la Parisienne,* someone unattainable yet modern. Curator: Fashion plates such as these were incredibly influential, dictating the styles and aspirational image of the era, contributing to an industry driven by constant reinvention. These works capture not just garments but the zeitgeist of a society in flux. Editor: You know, it makes you wonder. Did any real women dress exactly like this, or was it more like an idealized form, a bit…unrealistic? The drawing is pretty but also remote, something unattainable, much like today's filtered images. Maybe that *is* where the timidity plays in, the real women wanting this look were hesitant, in two minds if they could pull it off? Curator: A good point. It invites reflection on the creation of the idealized feminine image within a historical context. Thank you for your insightful views, and giving us new appreciation for Art Deco expression! Editor: And thanks to you for giving space for seeing beyond the surface and understanding context matters! I still want that dress, though, maybe less the intimidating shadow.