Morning Habit of a Russian Lady in 1764

by Thomas Jefferys

This beautiful plate, created by the renowned geographer and engraver Thomas Jefferys, provides a unique view of the private quarters of a Russian noblewoman in the 18th century. The plate was published only two years after the ascension of Catherine the Great to power, and it depicts the curious "habit" (costume) of the woman while dressing in the morning.

The woman is shown in an elegant setting of her personal life. Her costume reflects the European fashion style of the mid-18th century, yet still retains the distinctive elements characteristic of Russian culture, such as elaborate decoration and headdress. The detailed work of Jefferys reveals the texture of the materials used to make the costume, including silk, lace, and fur.