Medium: Dark green and beige striped velvet with silk embroidery

Date: c. 1785

Country: France

Credit: Museum purchase

Elements of tailoring emerged during the late Middle Ages, but not until the 17th 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."

Object Number: P83.19.10