Jeanne Paquin's affinity to historical styles is evident in this modern translation of the late 18th century shepherdess style worn by Marie Antoinette and her ladies at Fountainbleu. The cotton "fichu" and "apron" are embroidered with chain stitch, a modern version of 18th century tambour work. The green silk panel wrapping around the torso and forming two crisscross panels is a paired down contemporary interpretation of the 18th century polonaise overskirt. The old and new are likewise combined in the highly stylized, abstracted rendering of the garland motif, an 18th century decorative staple. A notable decorative detail on this dress is the subtle partial outlining of the stenciled pigment motifs with shiny silk floss.
