Woman Holding a Fan 1629

Abraham Bosse created this etching titled 'Woman Holding a Fan'. Bosse was a French artist, well known for his engravings depicting French society during the 17th century. His work provides insights into the era's social customs and the representation of women. This artwork is part of a series illustrating social rank through fashion. The woman's elaborate attire, the puffed sleeves, and the fashionable fan were indicative of her elevated social standing in French society. During this period, clothing denoted status and was subject to strict sumptuary laws. Bosse’s attention to detail captures the textures and patterns of luxurious fabrics, offering a glimpse into the material culture of the aristocracy. The overall aesthetic reflects the values and norms of the time. The etching is both a portrait and a social commentary on the period’s visual culture, highlighting the performative aspects of identity. It evokes questions about the relationships between gender, class, and representation, and invites the viewer to reflect on the values and norms that shape our perceptions.