1888 Chromolithograph Costume France 17th Century Dress Fashion Gown LCH4

This is a rare original 1888 color chromolithograph which highlights some of the remarkable fashion trends of the French aristocrats during the late 17th century. It was all about height, elegance and femininity. The fontange hairstyle was extremely popular around the turn of the century, sometimes adding a good foot to a lady's overall stature. It started as a simple pining up of ones tresses beneath a cute bonnet, but eventually evolved into an enormously elaborate affair during the 18th century that sometimes included wigs, flowers, feather and fruit.

Key Elements in Each Panel

Top - Varied ways of sitting while wearing these distinctive silk gowns with their long trains.

Bottom - Ball gown, with an ermine-lined clock - Three more examples of the shortened sleeves, lengthened bodice, and basket-like appearance of the silk silks. Fontanges and gloves complete the look, with bows and pearl necklaces accentuating the overtly feminine style.

CONDITION

This 123+ year old Item is rated Near Mint / Very Fine+. Light aging throughout. Light wrinkling. No natural defects. No surface rub. No tears. No water damage.

• Product Type: Original Chromolithograph; Color
• Grade: Near Mint / Very Fine+
• Dimensions: Approximately 10 x 13.5 inches; 25 x 34 cm
• Authentication: Serial-Numbered Certificate of Authenticity w/ Full Provenance
• Protection: Packaged in a custom archival sleeve with an acid-free black board (great for display, gift-giving, and preservation)

Period Paper has obtained an extraordinary, ultra-rare collection of original color and chromolithographs, which capture a myriad of ancient cultures and costumes from around the world. Virtually unseen individually, and from perhaps the most coveted portfolio of costumes from the 19th century, these historically important elephant folio-sized chromolithographs depict scenes and images venturing from ancient Egypt to classical Rome and Greece. Each illustration was adapted from actual artifacts and archaeological sites to define accurate representations of life during each time period; from the dainty Orient to the tribes of Oceania, there are beautiful illustrations for all, each more unique than the next.

Please note that the full original supporting documents for this original piece, shown in the additional pictures attached to the listing, are included and will be shipped with this original.

The originals offered are from the first edition of RacinetÕs masterwork on costumes of the world. Many have been heightened in gold and silver. The full color chromolithographs are some of the most spectacular we have procured. The duotone chromolithographs are stunning and impeccably preserved. Each piece from the collection is in museum-quality condition.

Keywords specific to this image: frills, women, woman, historical, look, chair, stool, dresser, vanity, hairstyle, upper class, noble

LCH4C88