Journal des Dames et des Modes, Costume Parisien, 1805, An 13 (629) Toilette pour la Promenade. 1805

This is an etching from 1805 by Horace Vernet, titled "Journal des Dames et des Modes, Costume Parisien, 1805, An 13 (629) Toilette pour la Promenade" Published during a transformative period in French history, this print provides a glimpse into the fashion and cultural values of the early 19th century. It reflects the societal emphasis on appearance, particularly for women, and how clothing was used to project status and identity. The print depicts a woman in fashionable attire, highlighting the design and aesthetics of the garment. The clothing suggests the privilege and social expectations tied to gender and class. In this era, fashion was not merely about aesthetics; it was also a visual language that communicated social standing. While seemingly a benign depiction of fashion, this etching invites reflection on the historical context and the complex interplay between gender, class, and identity during the early 1800s. The woman’s dress becomes a canvas upon which we can explore the cultural norms and power dynamics of the time, inviting us to consider the stories behind the image and the lives it represents.