Imagining Nations in Early Modern Costume Books
This presentation explores how sixteenth-century Europeans attempted to understand and categorize the world’s diversity, particularly through the concept of “nation.” Focusing on printed costume books of the period, it examines how these works grouped people into nations based on place of residence, ancestry, perceived character traits, and customs. Although the term “nation” appeared frequently in these books, its meaning was often vague and inconsistent. By analyzing how various nations were depicted, the presentation demonstrates how this flexible concept served both to emphasize—or even fabricate—differences between groups and to suggest shared traits that could unify them. It also considers the role of “national costume” as the primary visual tool through which these identities were constructed and communicated.
Speaker
Emilia Olechnowicz is a visiting scholar at The Newberry Library, and Assistant Professor at the Institute of Art of the Polish.
About Colloquium
Colloquium is a weekly series of talks featuring staff, fellows, and scholars who are working with the library’s vast collections. These events bring together experts from various fields to share their research on a wide range of topics, followed by an opportunity for the audience to ask questions and engage in conversation.
Colloquium is open to the public and offers a chance to explore fascinating ideas and new discoveries. No advance registration is required.