Revue de la Mode, Gazette de la Famille, dimanche 7 mars 1880, 9e année, No. 427: Toilettes de Mme Robillard-Noël (...) 1880

This is an 1880 lithograph by A. Chaillot, published in Paris as an illustration for ‘Revue de la Mode,’ a popular fashion magazine. The image presents a snapshot of bourgeois domesticity, showcasing the latest styles in women's fashion alongside signifiers of middle-class life such as a piano, framed artwork, and a well-dressed child. The visual codes here serve to reinforce social hierarchies of 19th-century France. The attention to detail in the garments, from the intricate lace to the tailored fit, speaks to the economic privilege and social status of the wearers. The setting—an elegant home—further emphasizes their position within the bourgeoisie. Magazines such as ‘Revue de la Mode’ played a crucial role in shaping and disseminating these ideals, acting as both a mirror and a guide for its readership. To understand this artwork fully, we need to delve into the publishing industry of the time, exploring the economics of fashion and the social function of such magazines. It serves as a valuable primary source for understanding the visual culture and social values of its time.