Ensemble
The Algerian Zouave uniform was adopted by French soldiers in North Africa in the 1830s and later inspired the dress of American militia and volunteer units during the Civil War. This near-complete uniform of the Keystone Zouaves, manufactured at the Schuylkill Arsenal in Pennsylvania, consists of an appliquéd jacket with a false vest, full-cut pants with ties at the waist and cuff, a pair of brown leather jambieres, or shin guards, and white cotton leggings, all characteristic elements of the Zouave style. This example was worn by Private Jediah K. Burnham, who joined the Keystone Zoaves, Company A of the 76th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, in 1863. Among the uniforms in the Museum's collection, this ensemble best represents a military style that precipitated a wider civilian fashion trend. The Zouave uniform was popularly cited in details of women's tailored attire as well as children's clothes from the 1860s onward.
Artwork Details
- Title: Ensemble
- Date: 1863–66
- Culture: American
- Medium: wool, cotton, leather, metal
- Credit Line: Purchase, Alfred Z. Solomon-Janet A. Sloane Endowment Fund and Friends of The Costume Institute Gifts, 2008
- Object Number: 2009.20a–j
- Curatorial Department: The Costume Institute
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