Man's suit
c. 1785
Silk velvet and silk embroidery
Museum purchase
Object numberP83.19.10
Elements of tailoring emerged during the late Middle Ages, but not until the seventeenth century did the fitted jacket, waistcoat, and breeches become codified as the man’s suit. During the baroque and rococo eras, these suits were most often made of embroidered silk and were lavishly accessorized with lace cuffs and cravats. The decorated man was a symbol of masculinity and power, but today ornamentation is regarded as “feminine.” Roses predominate in the embroidered pattern of this example; although not naturalist, they are carefully shaded and detailed to provide the illusion of depth.
DescriptionMan's three-piece court suit in dark green and beige striped silk velvet embroidered with floral border design in multicolor silk; frock coat, breeches and vestCollections
Exhibitions