Labor Markets at the Service of Queens: Dressmakers and Garment Artisans in Madrid (1790-1830)

Abstract

This article examines the primary labor markets within the clothing industry that served the queen consorts of Spain. The focus lies on the artisans responsible for the appearance of female royalty. With a chronological framework that spans from 1790 to 1830, the article explores the key clothing centers and dressmaker shops located in Madrid. Additionally, it investigates the prominent dressmakers who catered to the sovereign consorts, locates their establishments, and highlights the salary disparities between dressmakers and tailors within the Palace. The sources drawn from various collections, namely the General Palace Archive, National Historical Archive, Historical Protocols Archive, and Villa Archive, all of which are situated in Madrid.