Kostuumstudie van staande ridder 1810 - 1858

Pierre Emmanuel Dielman made this costume study of a standing knight in pencil on paper in the 19th century. The sketch depicts a man in traditional knightly attire, referencing a historical figure, possibly Charles I, as indicated by the inscription. Costume studies like this one played a crucial role in shaping historical narratives through visual representation. Made in Belgium, at this time, the nation was busy constructing a national history and this had implications for a nation in search of its identity. Dielman, as an artist, actively contributed to the visual codes that defined historical understanding and cultural identity. These visual choices often reinforced specific social and political ideologies of the time, shaping public perception. By examining archival sources, such as costume designs, sketches, and historical records, we can unravel the complex layers of meaning embedded within this seemingly straightforward sketch, revealing the intricate interplay between art, history, and society.