Habit of a Noble Lady of Syria in 1581

by Thomas Jefferys

Jefferys' particular print entitled "Habit of a Noble Lady of Syria in 1581" is one particularly intriguing example of early ethnographic depiction dating back to the eighteenth century. Even though Jefferys produced his work in the mid-1700s, the artist drew inspiration from much earlier sixteenth-century sources depicting changes in world fashion trends.

The print shows the style and grace of a Syrian noblewoman at a time when she might be seen around. The painting illustrates the complex layers of clothing worn in the Levant in the period of the Ottoman Empire, where the gown had high waistlines, large sleeves, and even the distinct headdress called tantour that represented high social status.