Elegantia, of tijdschrift van mode, luxe en smaak voor dames, Januari 1808, No. 32: Toque de Levantine.... 1808

This print, made in 1808 by an anonymous artist, showcases a variety of women's hat designs. The techniques employed here – engraving and hand-coloring – were typical of the era, used to disseminate fashion trends to a wider audience. Notice the emphasis on detail; the textural contrast between the velvet, satin, and lace. The array of plumes and ribbons give each design a distinctive flair. This wasn't just about keeping the sun off; it was about signaling status. The materials themselves – often imported – speak to a culture of global trade and consumption. Consider the labor involved. From the weavers producing the cloth to the milliners crafting the hats, each piece represents a chain of skilled work. Prints like these fueled the fashion industry, creating demand and shaping aesthetic ideals, defining class distinctions. By appreciating the making and materials we gain a richer understanding of its social and economic context.