French Fashions Of The 1890s

Front cover from Figaro Illustre showing a young woman seated in a window seat holding a fan, she wears a long white skirt with a wide leather belt, a frilled yellow blouse with a ruff collar and a large hat decorated with red feathers, Paris, France, 1893.

EDITORS COMMENTS

This print titled "Attente (Waiting)" takes us back to the enchanting world of 19th-century France. The image, originally featured as the cover of Le Figaro Illustre in December 1893, showcases a stunningly beautiful woman seated and elegantly dressed in a fashionable ensemble. The woman's attire is meticulously detailed, with her exquisite blouse, skirt, and hat reflecting the prevailing fashion trends of that era. Her outfit is complemented by delicate flowers adorning her lap and an intricately designed fan held gracefully in her hand. Every element exudes sophistication and refinement. As she sits patiently by the window, one can't help but wonder what she might be waiting for. Is it a lover's return or perhaps an anticipated rendezvous? The artist Francois Flameng skillfully captures this moment of anticipation on canvas through his masterful use of color lithography. The portrait not only serves as a testament to the beauty ideal prevalent during that time but also provides us with a glimpse into French culture at its height. It transports us to an era where elegance and grace were highly valued virtues. This remarkable piece from Bridgeman Images allows us to appreciate both the artistry behind Flameng's work and the enduring allure of 19th-century France