Habit of a Spanish Gentleman in 1626

by Thomas Jefferys

This impressive copperplate engraving is the very epitome of Habsburg Spain. Instead of the extravagant fabrics used by French royalty, the man in this image from 1626 displays his importance through “conspicuous austerity.”

Produced by Thomas Jefferys, who published his well-known work, A Collection of the Dresses of Different Nations, some years later (mid-18th century). The figure is dressed primarily in the Golilla, the stiff white collar that made him keep his back straight in a posture of stubborn pride. His doublet is snug against his body, along with his Greguescos (trunk hose) and Capa (cape). All this indicates his readiness to face life at court as well as his willingness to fight duels.