Artwork
The Several Habits of English Women, from the Nobility to the Country Women as they are in these times: The Woman with Flowers
The Several Habits of English Women, from the Nobility to the Country Women as they are in these times: The Woman with Flowers is a print by the Baroque artist Wenceslaus Hollar. It dates from 1638 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Created in 1638, this full‑length print portrays a woman holding a bouquet of flowers.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1638, this full‑length print portrays a woman holding a bouquet of flowers. She is dressed in a long gown trimmed with lace and floral motifs, wears a pearl necklace, and her curly hair frames a composed, serious expression. The composition focuses solely on the figure, with no discernible background, emphasizing her attire and bearing.
Subject & Meaning
The image forms part of a series that records the clothing of English women from aristocratic to rural classes. This particular figure, with her refined dress and accessories, represents the higher echelons of society, illustrating contemporary ideals of femininity, modesty, and the decorative role of floral ornamentation in women's fashion of the period.
Technique & Style
Executed by the Bohemian engraver Wenceslav Hollar, the work employs fine line etching to render intricate details of lace, pearls, and hair curls. Hollar’s characteristic precision captures texture and pattern, while the clear, unshaded outlines convey a crisp, documentary quality typical of his costume studies and cityscape prints.
History & Provenance
Wenceslav Hollar, born in Prague, spent much of his professional life in London, where he produced a range of topographical and genre prints. This particular plate belongs to his 1638 series on English women's dress. The print survived in several collections and is documented in catalogues of Hollar’s oeuvre; Hollar himself was interred in Westminster after his death.
Artist & collection
Artist
Wenceslaus Hollar (Czech: Václav Hollar (Czech pronunciation: ), German: Wenzel Hollar; 23 July 1607 – 25 March 1677) was a Czech engraver, etcher and painter.
