Recueil de la diversité des habits (A Collection of the Various Styles of Clothing)

François Desprez created this woodcut print, titled "Le flament," sometime in the 16th century. The image is part of a collection depicting various styles of clothing, capturing a moment of cultural self-awareness in France. Here, Desprez presents us with a figure identified as "Le flament" or "The Fleming," showcasing the distinctive fashion of someone from Flanders, now part of Belgium. Through the visual codes of dress, the image speaks to the growing awareness of regional and national identities during this period. Cultural references in the print, such as the specific style of hat, puffed sleeves and short robe offer insights into the material culture and social customs of the time. The inclusion of a poem underneath the image adds another layer of meaning, commenting on the character depicted. The artwork serves as a valuable historical document. Historians consult fashion plates, portraits, inventories, and literature to understand the social meanings embedded in clothing. Studying "Le flament" provides insight into the way people constructed and communicated identity through dress.