Habit of a Countryman of Dalecarlia in Sweden

by Thomas Jefferys

The following image of an ethnographic engraving, by Thomas Jefferys, dating back to circa 1757 to 1772 and featured in A Collection of the Dresses of Different Nations, provides insight into the typical folk dress worn by the people of Dalarna (Dalecarlia), Sweden. Historically, Dalecarlia was known for its conservative attitude regarding traditions, with its residents being described as more primitive and purer forms of the Swedish nation.

This particular print features the rustic elegance of a man hailing from the province of Dalecarlia, representing what could be considered as the rustic face of Sweden itself. The artist has accurately depicted the Dalecarlian man's long coat made from either dark or natural-coloured wool or vadmal, as well as his breeches and wide-brimmed hat.

Unlike the ever-changing trends of the nobility of Stockholm, this particular dress was worn out of tradition, which was evident from both the figure's clothes and posture. The man's clothes symbolize all the traits that Dalecarlians were famous for – agricultural skill, mastery of forests, as well as independence.