Journal des Dames et des Modes, Paris, August 22, 1799.
“Peigne d’Or. Fichu-Ceinture.”
This is a very simple dress, likely muslin or other lightweight fabric as it is August. Because such fabrics were semi-transparent, under-dresses were worn, as we can see here as she lifts her skirt. That movement shows a lot of fabric, which suggests the dress was gathered quite full in the back, as was typical of this time, and includes a demi-train.
The neckline is very low on the bosom. The short full sleeves are segmented with ribbons, creating the puffed effect seen in longer bishop’s sleeves. A pink fichu or scarf is used as a sort of belt (“ceinture”) that wraps from behind the neck, under the arms, probably crossed in back, and tied in front.
Her rather messy hairdo is held in place with a gold comb. She wears drop earrings that look like pearls, and carries a pink fan. Her pink slippers have very pointed toes, and her white stockings are clocked.
There is no signature of the artist or engraver, though it has the look of a Carle Vernet design, as he was a master at depicting drapery.
