Victorian Elegance in Detail: A Fashion Lithograph by L. Michau, 1889

About this sheet

This lithograph depicts a woman wearing a fashionable ensemble from 1889, viewed from both the front and the back to showcase the full details of the outfit. The dress is crafted from a light blue fabric adorned with floral motifs in shades of pink and purple. The gown features a layered design with a prominent cape-like overlay that drapes elegantly over the shoulders and down to the mid-thigh, trimmed with elaborate black lace. The same lace is used to embellish the hem of the skirt, adding texture and contrast to the overall look. The high neckline and full-length sleeves contribute to the modest yet stylish silhouette that was typical of the era. The woman is accessorized with a hat decorated with flowers and feathers, completing the sophisticated look.

This lithograph was produced by L. Michau, a renowned publisher of fashion illustrations during the late 19th century.

This illustration is part of a series created for the Exposition Universelle of 1889, held in Paris. The collection of fashion plates from this series was intended to display the latest trends and sophisticated styles in women's fashion, representing the elegance and luxury of the time.

The piece is a lithograph, a widely used printmaking technique in the 19th century that allowed for the production of detailed and high-quality images. Lithography involves drawing on a flat surface with a greasy substance, which is then treated to allow ink to adhere only to the drawn areas. This method was especially favored for fashion plates due to its ability to capture intricate details and subtle color variations, making it ideal for depicting elaborate clothing designs.