13e Cahier, 7e Suite, N.76

Fashion plate showing a woman in a green dress.

Gallerie des modes et costumes français. 13e Cahier des Costumes Français. 7e Suite d'Habillemens à la mode. N.76
ca. 1778
Designed by Pierre-Thomas Le Clerc (French, Paris 1740–1796); engraved by Nicholas Dupin (French, act. 1776–89)
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 Anglaise
This robe à l'anglaise (English-style dress), defined by the fitted back of the bodice, is made of a type of silk called pekin, alluding to the fabric's Chinese origin. The front of the overskirt is clasped together by a bow that fashion merchants called "the perfect contentment." On the side is a pocket slit, which allows the wearer to reach the separate tie-on pouch under the skirt (instead of the sewn-in pockets in menswear).

Inscription
English: "Robe à l'anglaise of apple-green pekin silk trimmed with plain gauze and a garland of flowers, a pouf of Italian gauze edged with flowers, the pink parfait contentement [bow], pink shoes, and the white rosette."

French: "Robe à l'Anglaise de Pekin verd pomme la garniture de gaze unie avec une guirlande de fleurs, un Pouf de gaze d'Italie bordé de fleurs, le parfait Contentement Rose, les Souliers Rose, et la rosette blanche."