Habit of a Merchant of Misnia in 1577

by Thomas Jefferys

The image provides an insight into the modest elegance and opulence of the look of a 16th century Saxon trader. This image is that of a member of the ruling trading class of Misnia wearing a voluminous and luxurious G Schaube, which was a fur-lined coat used to protect oneself from cold weather of Germany.

A typical late Elizabethan outfit, the trader wears a pleated doublet along with the high waisted trunk hose, while on his head, there is a flat bonnet. The image provides an essential account of the period during which there was a transition from the earlier Renaissance fashion trend to the one at the end of the 16th century, influenced by the Protestants. The image, made by Jefferys during the 18th century by means of copperplate engraving, helps in understanding the official "costume" of the trade centers of the Hanseatic Era.