Picturesque Representations of the Dress and Manners of the English

the work

Picturesque Representations of the Dress and Manners of the English , published in 1814, is a vivid collection of illustrations depicting the fashion and customs of 19th century England. Illustrated by William Alexander (1767-1816), the book records in detailed and beautiful hand-coloured copperplate engravings the dress and lifestyle of different classes in English society at the time .

William Alexander Biography

• Born April 10, 1767 in Maidstone, England.
• Active as a painter, illustrator and printmaker.
• He accompanied diplomatic missions to China and is also known for his works depicting Chinese landscapes and customs.
• He died on July 23, 1816 (aged 49).

Representative works

• Picturesque Representations of the Dress and Manners of the English (1814)
• A Beautiful Description of Chinese Costumes and Manners (1814)

Characteristics and influence of this book

A Beautiful Description of English Costume and Manners is a collection of 50 hand-coloured copperplate prints and accompanying text, showcasing in detail and with beautiful illustrations the dress and lifestyle of people at all levels of English society at the time, from fishermen and fish market women to chimney sweeps , nobles, judges and even the King .

These illustrations vividly convey the fashion trends of the time, as well as the differences in clothing according to social status and occupation, while the landscapes and buildings depicted in the background offer a glimpse into the streets and living conditions of Britain at the time.

This book is a valuable resource for the study of nineteenth-century British society and culture, and its beautiful illustrations will interest scholars of fashion and art history as well as the general public.