Klederdracht van Schouwen en Duiveland in Zeeland, 1857 1857

Ruurt de Vries created this lithograph titled "Klederdracht van Schouwen en Duiveland in Zeeland" in 1857, depicting traditional costumes from the Zeeland region. During the 19th century, there was a growing interest in documenting regional cultures, and traditional clothing became an important marker of local identity. This lithograph offers us a glimpse into the visual codes of gender and class within this community. The detailed rendering of the women’s clothing, from the elaborate lace caps to the heavy fabrics, speaks to the economic and social status of the wearers. Each element of the attire carries meaning, reflecting not just personal identity but also collective values and histories. These garments tell a story of continuity and change, of individual expression shaped by communal expectations. They invite us to reflect on the complex interplay between tradition, identity, and the individual.