Woman in Profile
1890-1900
Henri Somm captures the ultimate late-19th-century fashion statement with this profile of a Parisian woman sporting a hat so enormous it practically has its own weather system. Using loose, fluid watercolor washes characteristic of Impressionism, the deep blues and purples of the headwear contrast beautifully with her delicate profile and pale white collar. Somm was a prolific illustrator for French humor magazines during the Belle Époque, often caricaturing the trends of his day. Here, he treats the subject with a gentle touch, proving that oversized hats were the original 'statement pieces' of the 1890s, designed to be seen from across the room.
- Technique
- Watercolor
- Material
- Paper