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Photograph of unidentified woman wearing French Antillean dress, 1860-1880
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Photograph of unidentified woman wearing French Antillean dress, 1860-1880
The colonial postcard, popular in the first two decades of the 20th century, came to represent both the technological triumphs of western photography - in printing and mass production - and the political triumphs of European conquest and expansion. These postcards also promoted tourism to the French Caribbean, painting the region as a safe, favorable, and exotic travel destination.The woman in this image wears a traditional chemise jupe, an informal bodice and skirt ensemble. Prior to Emancipation, enslaved women in the French Caribbean were subject to le code noir, which required them to wear a chemise jupe made up of a white blouse, two skirts, and silver jewelry. Following Emancipation, black women resisted these dress codes by donning elaborate five-piece formal douillettes that were previously forbidden
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Media ID 22176249
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Black History Caribbean Cultural Heritage Emancipation Heritage Nmaahc Skirt Antilles French Antilles
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph captures the essence of a woman in a French Antillean dress, dating back to the late 19th century. The image showcases not only the beauty and intricacy of her traditional attire but also sheds light on the historical significance behind it. During this time period, colonial postcards emerged as symbols of both technological advancements in photography and European conquests. These postcards played a crucial role in promoting tourism to the French Caribbean, portraying it as an alluring and exotic travel destination. The unidentified woman in this picture wears a chemise jupe, which was commonly worn by enslaved women before Emancipation. This ensemble consisted of a white blouse, two skirts, and silver jewelry - adhering to le code noir imposed upon them. However, after gaining their freedom, black women rebelled against these restrictive dress codes by adorning themselves with elaborate five-piece formal douillettes that were previously forbidden. This photograph serves as a testament to the resilience and strength exhibited by black women during this era. It highlights their determination to reclaim their cultural heritage through fashion choices that defied societal norms. Preserved within the National Museum of African American History and Culture at Smithsonian Institution, this image is not just an exquisite piece of art but also an educational tool that allows us to delve into our shared history. It reminds us of the struggles faced by those who came before us while celebrating their triumphs over adversity.
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