Petit Courrier des Dames, 28 février 1827, No. 453 : Robe de velours garnie de blonde... 1827

This is an anonymous fashion plate from February 28, 1827, titled "Petit Courrier des Dames", realized through engraving. The composition centres on two figures adorned in elaborate dresses, hats, and jewellery. Notice how the colour palette uses soft tones, with a focus on the purplish blue dress contrasted against the white background and accessories. This draws attention to the textures and details of the garments. The horizontal lines of the dress's embellishments and the repetition of the ruffles and lace create a visual rhythm. The rigid structure is softened by the organic, flowing shapes of the feathered headpieces. The artist uses these contrasting elements to challenge fixed ideas of beauty and fashion, blending opulence with structure. Consider how such fashion plates, beyond their aesthetic appeal, reflect broader cultural codes of the era, communicating ideas about status and taste. The formal qualities here aren't just about beauty, but function as part of a larger discourse on identity and social meaning.