Young woman with a conical hat to right 1645

Wenceslaus Hollar created this etching, “Young Woman with a Conical Hat to Right,” in 1647. Hollar was born in Prague, in what is now the Czech Republic, and his career reflects the political and religious turmoil of the 17th century. This image captures the fashions of the European elite, but it also serves as a window into the social structures of the time. The woman's elaborate clothing and jewelry indicate her high social standing, reflecting a society deeply divided by class. The choice of attire, particularly the conical hat, might be associated with specific regional or cultural identities. The work's existence within the institutional framework of art—created, collected, and displayed—highlights the role of art in both reflecting and reinforcing social norms. To fully understand this piece, we might consult period fashion plates, social histories of 17th-century Europe, and studies of Hollar's life and work. The meaning of this work is contingent on its social and institutional context, illuminating the power of art to challenge existing social norms.