Très Parisien, 1925, No. 7, Pl. 16: Créations JENNY - AVENUE DU BOIS 1925

Curator: This graphite and watercolor print from 1925, titled "Tr\u00e8s Parisien, No. 7, Pl. 16: Cr\u00e9ations JENNY - AVENUE DU BOIS," offers a glimpse into Parisian fashion and city life of the era, created by G-P. Joumard, now residing in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. Editor: My first thought? It's elegance distilled! The controlled color palette of muted pinks and grays creates a very refined, almost wistful mood. Curator: Indeed. What we see here transcends mere fashion illustration. Joumard is subtly commenting on the burgeoning role of women in public life during the interwar period. Fashion became a potent symbol of female emancipation and modernity. Editor: Absolutely. The parasol, for example, historically a symbol of delicacy and protection, seems less about shielding from the sun and more a sophisticated accessory completing a picture of urbane self-possession. And isn't the rendering of the woman to the right so interesting? What statement does this piece carry? Curator: Considering the broader context of post-World War I society, this image signifies more than just style; it embodies a shift in socio-cultural values. These 'new women' were entering the workforce, gaining political influence, and redefining social norms. They used their presentation to actively challenge conventions, and high end houses catered to these new identities. Editor: Look at how confidently she stands in contrast to what looks like a more demure companion carrying the parasol; the iconographic meaning of the garment and her stature takes on new meaning! I think that it marks the way those 'new women' wanted to rebrand. They adopted male coded looks like pants or the androgynous suits, or even haircuts as a symbol. Curator: Exactly! Joumard cleverly positions this new ideal against the backdrop of Avenue du Bois, a fashionable thoroughfare, turning it into a stage where women assert their newfound independence. The city is therefore not just an environment, but becomes an important tool to show changes within society. Editor: Thank you, those contexts brings depth to the piece. Considering that women are wearing garments from 'Cr\u00e9ations Jenny' they are participating and actively buying into new freedoms and challenging society with that freedom. It is definitely much more than a beautiful watercolour. Curator: It highlights how cultural changes play out on the street level and I am thankful you were able to highlight the symbols embedded in what it is shown. Editor: Thanks! Now when looking at this, it really makes me want to go to Paris!