Hindoustan: Robe-manteau, de Paul Poiret

This hand-colored pochoir print from the Gazette du Bon Ton showcases a haute couture design by renowned fashion designer Paul Poiret. The composition depicts two figures in voluminous dark coats against a stylized background of geometric patterns in turquoise, purple, and gold—a signature aesthetic of Art Deco design. The title references "Hindustan." The pochoir technique, combining stencil and hand-painting, allowed for precise color registration and rich effects. Fashion magazines like the Gazette descended from the illustrated periodical tradition of satirical and caricature prints, repurposing those printmaking skills for a new commercial purpose: selling aspirational lifestyles to a wealthy readership.