Très Parisien, 1923, No 7: 9.- MA GRANDE SOEUR. - 1. Robe de jeune fille... 1923

This fashion plate titled Très Parisien, No 7, from 1923, probably used stencils or a similar technique to apply the colors. I imagine the artist carefully layering each hue to create these elegant figures. I can almost feel the artist's focus. What's so great about the work is the tension between the flat surface and the illusion of form, like the folds of the dress. Look how the big sister’s dress shimmers with tiny embroidered details, while the younger sister’s dress is plain. I'm wondering about the artist's decisions – the boldness of that purple ribbon contrasting with the yellow and white patterns; they lead the eye around the composition. I think they wanted to imbue the image with life, rhythm, and movement. The history of fashion plates is something that I love to look at, because the artist is in conversation with art and commerce. It's interesting to think of how the piece participates in an exchange of ideas, inspiring creativity across different eras. It's a testament to the ongoing dialogue between artists.