Journal des Jeunes Personnes, juillet 1838 : Robe en Mousselin (...) 1838

This lithograph from July 1838, made by an anonymous artist, presents a fashion plate featuring two figures in detailed attire. The composition strikes a balance between the figures and the architectural backdrop, hinting at an outdoor setting. The visual focus lies on the elaborate dresses, rendered with meticulous detail. The textures of the fabrics, lace, and trimmings create a rich, tactile impression despite the flat medium. Color plays a subtle yet significant role, distinguishing the garments and adding depth. The formal structure of the lithograph—the layering of textures, the interplay of light and shadow, and the careful arrangement of elements—serves not merely to depict fashion but to evoke a sense of material culture and social identity. Here, clothing functions as a semiotic system, conveying status, taste, and adherence to contemporary ideals. The lithograph reflects a broader cultural discourse around appearance and social roles in the 19th century.