Men’s Suit

English ceremonial dress, consisting of tailcoat, waistcoat, trousers and feluca hat. The tailcoat is made in woollen cloth. It has a band collar; tight sleeves with lace cuffs; rounded lapels with 6 buttons in marcasite and faux button holes; slender swallow tail back, and central opening in the back with two double pleats. The grosgrain silk waistcoat has multicoloured floral embroidery; front fastening with covered buttons; shaped pockets with flap; thin lapels, and rear tape fastening. The black cloth breeches have a front flap, and end at the knee with three marcasite buttons and strap. The uniform is complete with a feluca hat. The inscription reads: J. H. Bradley. As documented and inscribed, this suit belongs to English painter John Henry Bradley, who lived and died in Florence without ever abandoning his English uses and customs. This is an important example of civil dress, designed at the height of the ancient régime in the 18th century, and which would remain unchanged until the late 19th century. This example reflects the etiquette of the English court, as imposed by Queen Victoria between 1860 and 1869. The type of fabric would be changed with time, with the introduction of velvet, according to the instructions of the Lord Chamberlain’s office. The uniform is a companion to the dress belonging to Bradley’s wife, Emilia Tedeschi. Acquired from: Pia Teresa Mallaby Carmi