"Costume de Bain" by Georges Barbier (1913) – Art Deco Print

This charming vintage print offers a splendid glimpse into the sophisticated world of Georges Barbier, a celebrated figure in the realm of Art Deco illustration. Dating back to 1913, the piece titled "Costume de Bain" (translated as Bathing Costume) beautifully showcases the French artist’s remarkable ability to portray feminine elegance intertwined with the lavish fashion trends of the Belle Époque period. Barbier is widely regarded as one of the foremost fashion illustrators of the early twentieth century, having forged close working relationships with some of Paris’s most illustrious couture houses as well as leading fashion periodicals of his time.

The image features a young woman dressed in a quintessential 1910s bathing outfit, a style that marks a significant shift in social attitudes towards leisure and beachwear during the Edwardian era. This was a time when seaside holidays were becoming increasingly popular among the British upper and middle classes, and swimwear was evolving from cumbersome garments to more practical yet stylish ensembles. Barbier’s depiction captures not only the fashion of the era but also the changing societal norms surrounding modesty and recreation by the sea.

What makes this artwork particularly captivating is Barbier’s distinctive artistic approach. His use of crisp, elegant lines combined with a soft, muted palette results in a harmonious and balanced composition that reflects the refined taste of early twentieth-century French decorative arts. The subtle interplay of colours and the graceful posture of the figure convey a sense of poise and sophistication that was emblematic of the period’s aesthetic sensibilities.

Barbier’s reputation was largely built on his mastery of coloured stencils and his ability to bring fashion illustrations to life with a unique blend of artistry and style. His work not only influenced fashion illustration but also helped define the visual language of an entire cultural epoch. For collectors and admirers of vintage fashion prints, this reproduction represents a valuable piece of history, evoking the glamour and charm of a bygone era. It also serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of classic design and the timeless beauty of early twentieth-century fashion.

Whether displayed in a stylish London flat, a country home, or a boutique gallery, this exquisite print adds a touch of historical elegance and artistic refinement. It invites viewers to step back in time and appreciate the intricate craftsmanship and cultural significance embedded in Barbier’s work, making it a treasured addition to any art or fashion enthusiast’s collection.