Journal des Dames et des Modes, Costumes Parisiens, 1914, No. 155 : Robe de serge bleu (...) 1914

This fashion plate, Journal des Dames et des Modes, Costumes Parisiens, was made by Jan van Brock in 1914 with some kind of printmaking process. The blue of the dress is so specific, so flat and bold, it’s almost like a stage backdrop. I’m interested in how the drawing creates an illusion, a sense of volume, even though the marks are so economical, almost diagrammatic. Look at how the plaid skirt flares out—it’s achieved with the simplest possible means, just a few well-placed lines that suggest depth and movement. The whole thing is so stylish! The hat in particular is giving me Surrealist vibes. It's like Van Brock is saying, "Here's a person, but also a set of ideas." It reminds me a little of Erté, who also played with form and fashion in such a delightful way. Ultimately, this print invites us to see fashion not just as clothing, but as a form of art, a way of playing with identity and perception.