A witzchoura (sometimes witz-chouras) was a type of mantle, pelisse, or sleeved cloak, with a large collar and, sometimes, a hood, that was particularly fashionable in the early 19th century. The term derives from the Polish word wilczura, meaning 'wolf fur coat'. It was inspired by Polish styles, hence sometimes being described as a la Polonaise, although it is not the same as the gown called a polonaise. Like the original hussar's pelisse, it was typically lined with fur.
The witzchoura is said to have emerged about 1808, soon after Napoleon met with his Polish mistress, Marie Walewska, and was worn throughout the first half of the 19th century. Versions of the witzchoura were still being worn for travelling in 1849.
See also
References
- ^ a b c Joannis, Claudette (2007). L'élégance sous l'Empire : Joséphine à Malmaison : Musée national des châteaux de Bois-Préau et Malmaison. Paris: Réunion des Musées nationaux. ISBN 9782711851232.
- ^ "wilczura". sjp.pwn.pl (in Polish). Retrieved 2018-01-25.
- ^ "Cabinet of Taste: Costume of Paris". La Belle Assemblée: Or, Court and Fashionable Magazine; Containing Interesting and Original Literature, and Records of the Beau-monde. J. Bell. January 1827.
A woman of fashion well wrapped up in a Witzchoura pelisse, with sleeves á la Polonaise, ought to wear black velvet boots...
- ^ Cunnington, C. Willett (1990). English women's clothing in the nineteenth century. New York: Dover Publications. p. 154. ISBN 9780486319636.
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