Man's black wool suit, by unknown maker, 1800–17
An ensemble made from black wool has been the uniform of the middle-class professional – doctor, lawyer, clergyman, academic, merchant, businessmen - since the late 16th century. This tradition continued through the 19th century and well into the 20th. The sombre colour of this suit befits the sober profession of its wearer, Thomas Coutts (1735-1822), the founder of Coutts Bank. The notched collar and cut-away front of the coat reflect early-19th-century fashions. On the other hand, the old-fashioned breeches are appropriate for Mr Coutts's advanced age.
Museum no. 371-1908
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Sharp Suits
In Sharp Suits we examine the fascinating history of the evolution of the modern suit
Buy nowEvent - Intercultural Tour - Black Figures on the Dining Table
Mon 11 June 2012 13:00
FREE TALK: Discover the 'Blackamoor' characters that dined at 18th and 19th century banquets, but only for dessert! Spot the early porcelain and later earthenware figures of European representations of black people and the white entertainers who 'blackened up'.
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