Habit of a King of Florida in 1625

by Thomas Jefferys

This stunning copperplate engraving sheds light on how the Europeans were intrigued by the native sovereignty of the Timucua in Florida. The piece, which is believed to have been made in the Thomas Jefferys' workshop, represents the "Habit" (traditional attire) of a Florida Chief. The image shows the figure wearing a Roman-like dignified look while tattooed with intricate patterns symbolizing his elite status and fighting skills, dressed up in exquisite animal skins.

Through every element, from the metal disc jewelry pieces to the feathers, the image highlights how the Southeast region had already developed a sophisticated social stratification structure even prior to colonization.