1850s - Exquisite French Fashion Print - Original Hand-Colored Engraving - 1852 Journal des Demoiselles Paris Couture Illustration

This authentic antique fashion plate originates from the renowned "Journal des Demoiselles," a leading French publication of the 1850s, located at Boulevard des Italiens, 1 in Paris. This particular page is marked as the "19e année" (1852). It is a stunning example of mid-19th century Parisian haute couture.

The illustration features two elegant women adorned in magnificent ball gowns, characteristic of the era's sophisticated style. One figure is captivating in a voluminous light blue ruffled dress, holding a bouquet, while her companion showcases an intricate white lace overlay ensemble with a striking gold underskirt and a delicate veil. The hand-coloring beautifully highlights the luxurious details of their attire and the grand interior setting with chandeliers and classical columns.

This original print is a remarkable piece for collectors of fashion history or antique paper ephemera. It offers a genuine glimpse into the sartorial elegance and aesthetic sensibilities of the Second Empire period. Perfect for framing, it adds a touch of vintage charm and historical depth to any collection or decor, reflecting a bygone era of French fashion artistry.

Please note that this engraving is not in impeccable condition, please take a good look at the photos.

Dimensions: About 25 x 18 cm

Techniques of realization:
From circa 1850 to 1880, issues of Journal des Demoiselles featured elaborate fashion plates produced using traditional engraving or lithography, then hand‑colored, creating unique, richly detailed images for readers. The black‑ink outlines—often etched or engraved—were printed first, after which skilled colorists applied watercolors directly to each print.

Occasionally, simple tonal effects were added using techniques like aquatint or stipple engraving for dimension before hand‑coloring. Art historical sources confirm that these mid‑19th‑century illustrations were deliberately enhanced by artisans to showcase the latest Parisian styles with artistic refinement and individual character

Journal des Demoiselles history:
Founded in February 1833 in Paris by Jeanne‑Justine Fouqueau de Pussy, the Journal des Demoiselles was a leading French magazine aimed at teenage girls (14–18 years old), catering to middle‑ and upper‑class audiences . Initially issued in two versions—one illustrated and one text-only—it evolved by 1865 into multiple editions distinguished by color (including purple, blue, green), with a new weekly “orange” edition added in 1869 .

Targeted at young women, the journal featured a variety of content: fashion plates, literature, moral advice, theatrical reviews, and practical topics like sewing and etiquette, with limited emphasis on science or education . It absorbed other publications over its lifespan—including Petit Courrier des Dames in 1869, La Jeune Fille de Bruxelles in 1902, and La Lecture in 1913—before ceasing publication in 1922 .

The Journal des Demoiselles was highly regarded for shaping the tastes and values of young French women across nearly a century. Its beautifully presented fashion imagery and cultural features made it a fashionable household name. The variety of editions and long publication run reflect its enduring influence in 19th- and early 20th-century French society.