Images(5)

Van Dyck Jacket

Date1770-1780

OriginEngland

MediumSilk satin, silk ribbed ribbons, cotton and linen twill ("fustian"), linen interlining

DimensionsJacket: OL: about 28"; Waist: 35-37"; Chest about 44 to 45"; Sleeve: 35" from CB neck; 19-20" center back.

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2012-153,A

DescriptionVan Dyck-style suit consisting of a long-sleeve fitted jacket and long breeches of blue silk satin trimmed with white satin and ribbed silk ribbons in several different widths.
A. Jacket constructed with front eleven-button opening, trimmed down fronts and around neck with gathered 3/4-inch white ribbon. No collar. Long tight sleeves cut with wings over top of shoulders and sleeves shaped to curve over elbows, ending in white satin stitched-down cuffs and five buttons at each sleeve opening. Belt of satin stiffened with linen interlining is tacked to the suit at the center-back waist and made to tie closed with ribbons at one side. Jacket is fully lined with napped twill cotton and linen, so-called "fustian".
ProvenanceAccording to the vendor, it was purchased from a small auction on the south coast of England, along with other men's garments dating from the early to middle of the nineteenth century. The suit was offered at Christie's South Kensington, December 2, 2010, lot 57. It was listed as "A sky blue satin costume for a page boy. England, 18th century, possibly for the Eglington Tournament. Trimmed with ruched ivory satin ribbon." The estimates were 1,000 to 3,000 GBP ($1,600-4,500 USD). The entry continues, "The Eglington Tournament was held in 1839, at the height of romantic feeling for the medieval era. Costumes were elaborate, as were the preparations for jousting and feasting. The great and the good attended."