Costume and Textiles Livery Coat for a Servant of Prince von Metternich Made in Austria, Europe1813-29 Artist/maker unknown, Austrian Dark yellow fulled wool plain weave, satin and cut and looped velvet (lampas weave) ribbon, cast brass buttons Currently not on view 1912-108 Purchased with Special Museum Funds, 1912 |
LabelAustrian statesman Prince Klemens Lothar von Metternich provided this livery coat to a footman or groom in his service. The yellow cloth is covered by rich braid that, like the brass buttons, is adorned with the coat of arms of the Metternich noble family: three scallop shells that symbolized pilgrimage. Since display was the impetus for livery, the grandest clothing—often including fossilized styles and quasi-military trimmings—was worn by servants with merely ceremonial duties. |
