1780 / 1789, France

1780 / 1789, France

Identifier
1982.290a–e
Transfer of custody
Victoria and Albert Museum
Acquisition
Purchase, Irene Lewisohn and Alice L. Crowley Bequests, 1982
Collection
Material
Technique
Depiction
Production time
Production place
Type of object

Description

The multiple pieces here, comprising the cuffs, collar, and front panels for a man's coat (including pocket flaps, vents, and buttons in two sizes) as well as knee bands for breeches, represent a suit ready to be cut and sewn to the client’s measurements. This method of tailoring (à la disposition) allowed visitors to Versailles to dress themselves quickly according to the latest French taste. The colorful floral embroidery—a testament to the high quality of French needlework—guaranteed that the wearer would cut a dashing figure.