Vier dames uit Bayonne in Baskisch kostuum c. 1846 - 1860

Blanche Hennebutte-Feillet created this print, Vier dames uit Bayonne in Baskisch kostuum, with an intention to portray four women in Bayonne wearing traditional Basque clothing. The artwork reflects the 19th-century European interest in regional cultures and costumes, particularly in the context of nation-building and the construction of cultural identities. The detailed depiction of the women’s dresses offers insight into the cultural nuances of the Basque region. Yet, the women, who seem to be captured during a leisurely stroll, appear rather stoic. The artist seems to be negotiating between preserving the cultural specificity of the Basque people, and integrating them into a French national identity. The artwork invites us to reflect on the complexities of cultural representation and the ways in which clothing can serve as a marker of identity. The women's apparel provides a glimpse into their cultural heritage while prompting us to consider the broader issues of identity and representation within 19th-century European society.