Ornatus Muliebris Anglicanus (The Clothing of English Women) 1640

Wenceslaus Hollar created this engraving, “Ornatus Muliebris Anglicanus,” which translates to “The Clothing of English Women,” during a period of significant social and political upheaval in England. Hollar, a Bohemian artist working in England, captured the styles worn by women during the mid-17th century. The print depicts a woman adorned in the attire of the English elite, reflecting the rigid class structure of the time, where fashion served as a visual marker of social standing. Her elaborate gown, complete with lace detailing and a high waist, speaks to the economic disparities of the era. The clothing not only signifies wealth but also plays a role in defining feminine identity. The layers and structured silhouette confine the body, adhering to the prevailing ideals of modesty and decorum. These fashion plates offer a glimpse into the negotiation of identity and the performance of gender roles within 17th-century English society. Through his detailed rendering, Hollar invites us to reflect on the complex interplay between fashion, identity, and social status.