7e Cahier, 1ere Suite, G.37
Gallerie des modes et costumes français. 7e Cahier des Costumes français. 1ere Suite d’Habillemens de Femmes à la mode. G.37
ca. 1778
Designed by Pierre-Thomas Le Clerc (French, Paris 1740–1796;) engraved by Pierre Adrien Le Beau (French, Paris, b. 1748)
Hand-colored engraving
Approx. 11 1/2 × 17 in. (29.2 × 43.2 cm)
Frick Art Research Library; Gift of Melinda Martin Sullivan, 2016
Image Frick Digital Studio
The Polonaise
One of the most popular informal daywear styles, the robe à la polonaise (Polish-style dress) is characterized by an overskirt looped up by two ribbons or cords, forming three puffy sections or swags. The style was often made with lightweight fabrics appropriate for casual settings and activities.
Inscription
English: "Woman in a robe à la polonaise, made of striped taffeta, trimmed with gauze, putting on her garter and revealing her beautiful leg."
French: "Femme en Robe à la Polonaise, de taffetas rayé garnie de gaze, remettant sa jarretière et laissant voir sa belle jambe."