Habit of a Spanish Knight of the Golden Key in 1700

by Thomas Jefferys

The engraving from Thomas Jefferys, dated to the year 1700, reflects the unique costume style of the Spanish Knight of the Golden Key. The Knight portrayed is an elite member of the Spanish Royal Court and belongs to the category of Gentilhombres de Cámara (Gentlemen of the Bedchamber), who wielded power through the golden key hung on their waist.

While Thomas Jefferys was renowned for being the geographer to the king, his study of costumes was vital to comprehending the strict social order prevalent during the eighteenth century. The “Golden Key” was more than mere ornaments; rather, they were practical tools for opening the doors to the Alcázar’s inner sanctum.