Red Patterned Velvet Coat, Vest and Breeches, ca. 1775-1780, KSUM L1995_17


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Detail

Red Patterned Velvet Coat, Vest and Breeches
Unknown maker, probably from France, ca. 1775-1780.
Lent by the Helen Clark Ward Costume Collection,
Allen Memorial Art Museum, Oberlin, Ohio.
R. T. Miller, Jr., Fund, 1948
KSUM L1995.17.174ab (48.173ab)
Reproduction neck stock, shirt, socks and shoes.

The quality of the silk fabric in this suit, its elaborate decoration and its deep hue would have spoken to the wearer's place in society. The pile fabric was at times cut or uncut, causing a varied relief. Embroidered with silver thread, now tarnished, the suit also is adorned with brilliant glass pastes that imitate gems. The source of the dye is uncertain and could be from cochineal, kermes or madder.