Habit of a Woman of Wotiac in Siberia in 1768

by Thomas Jefferys

This ethnographic print, printed in London in 1768, gives an intriguing insight into the historical costumes of the Wotiac people (modern-day Udmurt) from Siberia. Made by Thomas Jefferys, geographer to King George III of England, this engraving represents a significant example of ethnographic illustrations in Europe in the 18th century, reflecting the Europeans' interest in documenting the exotic costumes of nations within the Russian Empire.

This engraving illustrates a woman from the Wotiac tribe wearing traditional costumes from the middle of the 18th century. This print is included in Jefferys' extensive publication entitled "A Collection of the Dresses of Different Nations, Antient and Modern."

The print showcases the elaborate and detailed dress that was unique to the inhabitants of the Volga-Urals region, paying special attention to the distinctive tall headdress embellished with coins and embroidery, along with the bulky and ornate tunics which were essential elements of the ethnic dress of Siberian women during the reign of Catherine the Great.