The power of illustrated couture. 👗 La Mode Illustrée (1860) was a groundbreaking French fashion magazine that brought Parisian style to everyone! It bridged the gap between haute couture and the growing middle class, featuring detailed fashion illustrations and sewing patterns. The magazine showcased trends for women and children while offering tips on home decor, etiquette, and embroidery, empowering women to express their creativity. By blending art, culture, and craftsmanship, La Mode Illustrée reflected the changing roles of women in the 19th century and inspired generations of fashion lovers and creators. Image description: 1)The colour fashion plate of two women sitting outside in a garden, wearing green and pink ball gowns, and arranging a bouquet. 2)The colour fashion plate of two women in a garden, wearing pink and green dresses, and picking flowers. 3)Colour fashion plate of two women sitting in a bedroom, wearing black, gold, and white ball gowns. (fb)

A quiet celebration of Japan’s natural beauty 🌸 Ogawa Kazumasa was a pioneer of Japanese photography during the Meiji era (1868–1912). He blended traditional Japanese aesthetics with cutting edge Western printing techniques. One of his most iconic works, 'Some Japanese Flowers', features hand coloured collotype prints that beautifully capture the delicate forms and colours of Japan’s flora. These botanical photographs helped introduce the world to the richness of Japan’s natural beauty and horticultural traditions. A timeless celebration of nature, craftsmanship, and cultural fusion. IMAGE DESCRIPTION A hand coloured vintage collotype print from Some Japanese Flowers by Ogawa Kazumasa. The image shows delicate Japanese flowers in full bloom, richly detailed with soft, natural colours. (fb)