Habit of Rubens Wife in 1620

by Thomas Jefferys

This beautiful print by Thomas Jefferys gives us a glimpse of the 17th century by portraying the “Habit of Rubens’ Wife” (also known as Isabella Brant and Helena Fourment). First made popular during the early part of the 1600s, this type of attire was the epitome of Flemish upper class.

The design shows the evolution from the Elizabethan formality to the more flowing Baroque style, as seen through its use of the classic “millstone” ruff, elaborate embroidery work on the stomacher, and the rich, flowing silk fabric. This print is part of Jefferys’ famous work titled A Collection of the Dresses of Different Nations.