Zweedse vrouw gekleed in zondagse kleding 1704 - 1707

Bernard Picart created this print titled 'Swedish woman dressed in Sunday clothes' sometime between the late 17th and early 18th centuries. It offers a glimpse into the social and cultural life of women in the region of Dalecarlia, Sweden. This work is part of a broader visual archive that sought to document and categorize people across geographic regions. It invites us to reflect on how cultural identities are constructed and perceived. The woman is depicted in what is considered her finest attire for religious observances; her clothing becomes a marker of identity, reflecting both her social standing and her regional affiliation. Note the modest clothing, with the long skirt, jacket, and head covering. These details speak volumes about the expectations placed on women within this community. The print also reflects the artist's cultural perspective as an outsider. This piece provides insight into how cultural identity is shaped and communicated through visual representation. It encourages a dialogue about the complexities of cultural exchange and representation.