E. Fiaschi

Seaside vacations grew in popularity in the 1890's. It was only by the late nineteenth century that women no longer camouflaged the contours of their bodies at the beach. Thin and silky free-flowing bathing costumes like this one allowed women to enjoy themselves as they abandoned the formerly weighty and burdensome costumes of previous decades.

The costume's intricately carved lace and bloomers cling to the bather emphasizing her sleek, elegant and pristine nature, which is further echoed in the pure white marble medium. The graceful figure gazes down at the water with an expression of delighted anticipation as she tests the temperature with her toes.

Small decorative details such as the elaborate ruffles and pattern, and ribbon up the side of the bather's costume are typical of Fiaschi's work.