
These photos were created as part of the project of documenting the Romanian national noble costumes of the 19th century: ethnographic research by Simona Laiu – a collector, historian, researcher of traditional Romanian clothing. I had the honor of working with rare and valuable pieces preserved in Simona’s private collection Gradina Hestiei and the Muzeul Viticulturii și Pomiculturii Golești museum’s holdings.
All costumes are presented in these photos – were national court costumes inspired by the peasant costumes of the Arges and Muscel regions of Romania. Such outfits, as a powerful mix of national tradition and luxury were worn at the court of King Charles I and Queen Elizabeth, and later – at the court of King Ferdinand I and Queen Maria. Silk, silk embroidery, gold and silver threads – all the best and most expensive of that time: traditional folk form and luxurious noble execution. Queen Maria (Marie of Edinburgh) herself often preferred the national costume (made to fit the queen), thereby strengthening its popularity in noble circles.
Currently, some of the photos were included in the exhibition “IA- rădăcini spre infinit”, which was presented in Chisinau in October 2024, and the rest will be published later in a thematic book that is being prepared.
I am grateful to Simona for the opportunity to discover a new side of Romania and work with unique costumes. It was a priceless and unforgettable experience. Romania is love!
© ethnic photographer Anna Senik
Model: Simona Laiu
Costumes: Gradina Hestiei collection
Location: Muzeul Golesti