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Suit (habit à la française)

1780s

Not on view

Count Axel Fersen the Younger must have struck a fine figure at Versailles in this fashionable suit with exquisite floral embroidery. A member of an influential Swedish aristocratic family, Fersen first visited France on his Grand Tour (a trip taken to further his education) in 1773–74 and met Marie Antoinette; over time, they developed an intimate friendship.

Suit (habit à la française), Embroidered silk (modern breeches), French — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Suit (habit à la française), Embroidered silk (modern breeches), French

Suit (habit à la française), Embroidered silk (modern breeches), French

This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Image © Nordic Museum, photo by Mats Landin

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Image © Nordic Museum, photo by Mats Landin

Title: Suit (habit à la française)

Date: 1780s

Culture: French

Medium: Embroidered silk (modern breeches)

Dimensions: Length at CB (Coat): 44 11/16 in. (113.5 cm)
Length at CF (Waistcoat): 28 3/4 in. (73 cm)

Classification: Outerwear-Menswear

Credit Line: Nordiska Museet, Stockholm (NM.0154745A–C)

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European Sculpture and Decorative Arts at The Met

The Met's comprehensive collection of European sculpture and decorative arts reflect the development of a number of art forms in Western European countries from the early fifteenth through the early twentieth century.