Journal des Dames et des Modes, Costume Parisien, 25 février 1810, (1041): Costume de Bal. 1810

Pierre Charles Baquoy made this print titled, Costume de Bal, in Paris in 1810. It was made for the Journal des Dames et des Modes. This was a fashion magazine that catered to the tastes of the Parisian upper classes. The image depicts a woman in a high-waisted empire silhouette, which was the height of fashion at the time. Visually, the dress suggests both a rejection of the excesses of the ancien regime and an embrace of classical ideals, evoking the garments of ancient Greece and Rome. After the revolution, French society saw a resurgence of interest in ancient civilizations. Fashion magazines played a key role in disseminating these trends and shaping the visual culture of the period. By studying these images and their historical context, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural values of early 19th century France. Resources such as periodicals, letters, and other documents can offer a glimpse into the world of those who consumed these images.