High Linen Collar c. 1936

Henry De Wolfe made this drawing, "High Linen Collar," using graphite on paper. The image offers a glimpse into the sartorial conventions of its time, reflecting social norms through fashion. The high linen collar, a symbol of formality and status, was a staple in the wardrobes of the upper and middle classes. Consider its restrictive nature: the physical constraints mirroring the social constraints of the era. De Wolfe's attention to detail invites us to examine the cultural values embedded in clothing. Is it a celebration or a subtle critique? To truly understand this image, one could delve into fashion history, exploring etiquette manuals, advertisements, and portraits. These sources reveal the unspoken rules governing appearance and how clothing reinforced social hierarchies. Art provides an invaluable lens, reflecting the spirit of an age.