Images(3)

Man's Court Suit

PeriodCirca 1790 - 1820

Place MadePossibly England

MediumWool broadcloth, twilled silk, linen, gold bullion embroidery, spangles, sequins

Dimensions50 × 28 in. (127 × 71.1 cm)

ClassificationsCostume, Men's

Credit LineGift of Frank S. Hermann, 1941

Object number1576

DescriptionA man's tight collared cutaway coat of fine navy blue wool broadcloth, with shaped sleeves and vented skirts tapering dramatically toward the back. The coat is made with a pair of left and right hip pockets with flaps, wide cuffs with three functional button closures, and a front closure comprised of eight buttons. The coat is lined with dark olive twilled silk, heavily quilted along the shoulders and upper chest areas. The pockets are lined with coarse white linen. The coat is intricately and extensively embroidered along collar, front, cuffs, back center, and tails with elaborate gold bullion in twining grape leaves, tendrils, vines, and grape bunches. Spangles and sequins are used as centers on selected grape bunches, while others are sewn in satin stitch. The large circular buttons feature single leaves and tendrils, outlined with chain stitch.
Curatorial RemarksThis breathtaking and heavily embroidered three-piece man’s costume was created for a seriously formal occasion or special event. Similar garments were acceptable wear for presentation or visit to the British royal Court. It was possible for tailors to purchase fabric panels already embroidered from France and England, which the maker would then cut out and fashion into specific garments.

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