Lot 156
Rare Original, Late 18th Century French/British Courtier's Frock Coat. In the eighteenth century, men's formal and court attire displayed a lavishness that was notable for the elegance of its finish and the finesse of its application of ornamentation, most especially in fine embroidery. The elite of Western Europe and the Americas emulated styles originating in France since the time of Louis XIV. This vintage original wool, silk-lined frock coat with silver-thread embroidery and accents, exhibits a flaired silhouette favored by the elite. The breeches, which have not survived, likely would have matched the coat. The use of blue wool broadcloth for such a formal ensemble is typical. From the mid-eighteenth century, wool became symbolic of Western European civility and freedom and was adopted as a fashionable fabric. Further investigation seems to reveal this piece may have been cut down at the waist, evidenced by the seam, an alteration not uncommon with fine apparel to extend its use. The cut of the coat and silver bullion embroidery is also very similar to The French Guards (habit de commissaire de guerres des gardes-françaises) an infantry unit to ensure public order in Paris.
This piece was de-accessioned from a museum in the Midwest. Prior to their placing the coat on exhibit, it was restored by Murray Conservation, Oklahoma City. A CD-ROM of photos taken during the process conveys with the coat, but know that the restoration in maintaining so much of the original coat was most impressive, stabilizing the lining and stitching. Estimate Value $750 - UP
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| Realized $810 |
