Schouwen & Duiveland, Winter Sleigh Ride Dutch Peasant Costumes, 1932, Paper

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Schouwen & Duiveland Winter Sleigh Ride – Dutch Peasant Costumes, c.1800 This exquisite print, titled *Plate XXXVIII: Schouwen and Duiveland*, … Read more Schouwen & Duiveland Winter Sleigh Ride – Dutch Peasant Costumes, c.1800 This exquisite print, titled *Plate XXXVIII: Schouwen and Duiveland*, is a richly colored and finely detailed depiction of traditional Dutch costume from the northernmost districts of the province of Zeeland. Drawn from the 1932 publication *The National Costumes of Holland* by Gratiane de Gardilanne and Elizabeth Whitney Moffatt, this image captures a unique moment in Dutch rural life: two peasants enjoying a sleigh ride through a snow-covered landscape, a practice once common between the islands. The costumes shown are based on the elaborate and colorful dress worn in Schouwen between 1780 and 1825, preserved into the 19th century due to the region’s relative isolation. The man’s outfit is striking and ornate, consisting of a wide-brimmed black felt hat with a tall crown, trimmed with a broad silk hatband fastened with a buckle. His red, black, and white checked cotton neckerchief is pulled through a silver clasp that fastens the high-collared, glazed damask waistcoat—referred to as a *bemdrok*. This waistcoat features long sleeves and a row of silver buttons running down from the neck. Below, he wears black corduroy breeches that fasten below the knee with silver buckles, a silver fob watch and seals, and garters with silver fasteners—an ensemble both practical and decorative. The woman’s attire is a showcase of rural Dutch finery. She wears an under-cap of white cotton edged in lace, secured by a silver band known as a *beugel*, which ends in two gold *krullen* (curls). Her outer cap, called a *flodder muts*, is fashioned of net and fine lace, bordered with red chintz and tied under the chin with black ribbons. Her low-cut black chintz bodice with yellow polka dots sits over a white linen chemise, and her full blue apron with checked yoke hides a richly pleated skirt of wool or summer camlet. A crossover *fichu* of batiste or printed cotton provides warmth and elegance, and her shoulder-cape of flowered mauve cotton is lined with yellow silk and fitted with a hood. This print not only provides insight into historical clothing practices but also evokes a sense of romance and nostalgia through its portrayal of a long-forgotten sleigh ride. The careful rendering of textile patterns and accessories makes this plate a particularly desirable addition to any collector’s portfolio. Condition: Excellent condition. Colors remain vivid and fresh, with minimal age toning to the margins. Original plate imprint is crisp and undisturbed. No tears, foxing, or staining. The reverse is blank. Framing Tips: This plate would be beautifully enhanced by a wide cream or ivory mat and a simple black or dark wood frame to draw attention to the ornate costume detail. For added flair, consider a double mat with a secondary color pulled from the rich reds or blues of the attire. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the vibrancy of the print. See less