Further Media
In the second half of the 18th century, the colourful men's waistcoat became more and more important as an eye-catcher. A fine waistcoat was considered the decorative highlight of a suit. Sleeveless and high-necked, with or without a stand-up collar, and buttoned down the front, the waistcoat was part of a gentleman's fashionable outfit.
You can see a richly embroidered example made of silk in the first drawer. The multicoloured silk embroidery in satin stitch shows carnation blossoms offset in an orderly pattern. The edges and pocket of the waistcoat are decorated with cornflowers and rose-twigs. The stylised naturalistic embroidery motifs were typical of the style at the end of the 18th century and are another wonderful example of the growing enthusiasm for nature at that time.