The Modiste Francois Boucher (1703-1770)

The painting The Modiste by Jean-Siméon Chardin depicts a well-lit interior scene focusing on two women engaged in the art of dressmaking.

In the foreground, a woman is seated on the floor, leaning forward and holding a yellow ribbon. She is dressed in a beautiful, voluminous blue gown with intricate ruffles and a black bodice adorned with lace. Her hair is styled up with a small cap. Facing her, a second woman, elaborately dressed in a grey and blue silk gown, is seated on a chair. She is holding a spool of ribbon and appears to be selecting or measuring it. This woman has her hair styled in an updo with small curls framing her face.

The background reveals a luxurious room with opulent draperies of a deep red hue. A large window with square panes is visible on the left, allowing soft light to illuminate the scene. To the left of the window, a vanity table is laden with various accessories, including a mirror, boxes, and ribbons, suggesting the meticulous nature of their work. A small stack of fabrics is also present. On the right side of the painting, a plush armchair holds a white cat, adding a domestic touch to the scene. The overall impression is one of elegance, refinement, and the quiet pursuit of fashion and craft.

The paintings subtexts are rich with implications about life in the 18th century, particularly concerning aesthetics, social status, and the role of women.

• The Art of Fashion and Craftsmanship: The central theme is clearly the creation and appreciation of fashion. The intricate details of the womens gowns, the variety of ribbons and accessories, and the focused attention on the materials all highlight the skill and artistry involved in dressmaking. The title The Modiste (a woman who makes or sells fashionable clothes) directly points to this.
• Social Class and Refinement: The clothing, the furnishings, and the overall opulence of the setting suggest that these women belong to a privileged social class or are involved with those who do. The meticulous attention to detail in their attire and surroundings speaks to a lifestyle of leisure and a concern for appearance.
• Female Agency and Skill: While often depicted in domestic roles, the women in The Modiste are shown actively engaged in a skilled and creative practice. This can be interpreted as a subtle commentary on female agency and the importance of their contributions to the economy and social order, even within the confines of their time.
• The Domestic Sphere and its Luxuries: The presence of the cat and the overall domestic setting, combined with the luxurious materials, underscores the intersection of the private sphere with the world of material wealth and fashion trends.
• Sensory Experience: The painting appeals to the senses through its depiction of rich textures (silk, lace, fur of the cat), vibrant colors (deep red, blues, yellows), and the implied sensory experience of touching and working with fine fabrics.