French Fashions – c.1860s

Authentic French Fashion Lithograph from Le Follet

This exquisite hand-colored fashion plate originates from the acclaimed Parisian periodical Le Follet, printed at Boulevard St. Martin. The historical illustration beautifully depicts an intimate indoor musical gathering, capturing the sophisticated entertainment and social customs of upper-class European society during the mid-nineteenth century. Serving as a premier reference for antique textile history, this collectible print showcases the pinnacle of French romantic-era garment design and salon culture.

Nineteenth-Century Evening Gowns and Musical Salon Attire

The artwork displays four elegant women gathered around a piano with open sheet music under draped golden curtains. The figures model luxurious off-the-shoulder evening dresses adorned with delicate lace berthas, layered flounces, and rich satin textures in emerald green, crimson, and pale lavender. Their intricate hairstyles are meticulously decorated with fresh floral headpieces, trailing ribbons, and fine veils, perfectly illustrating the formal ball and opera styling trends of the period.