Figures de modes c. 1710

Jean-Antoine Watteau made this print, Figures de modes, in France using etching. The artwork presents a woman dressed in fashionable attire, viewed from behind. Made in the early 18th century, this print reflects the growing interest in fashion and its social implications. During this period, France was a center for luxury goods and trends, and fashion played a significant role in defining social status and identity. The woman’s elaborate dress, with its intricate details and flowing fabric, highlights the importance of appearance in aristocratic culture. Watteau's choice to depict the figure from behind invites viewers to consider the performative aspects of fashion and the ways in which individuals construct their public personas. To further understand the print, one might examine fashion plates and period journals. Considering the social and cultural context of the time helps us appreciate its commentary on the structures of its time.