Habit of an English Gentleman in 1588

by Thomas Jefferys

This is how the English Gentleman was portrayed in the precise copperplate engraving created by Thomas Jefferys. Depicted at the height of the Golden Age of the reign of Elizabeth I, the figure in this plate captures the image of the English Gentleman at his best. Wearing a well-fitted peascod-bellied doublet, the figure portrays the stiff silhouette which was typical of the royal court of Elizabeth I.

The costume also includes bombasted trunk hose and a starched cartwheel ruff, the latter of which was worn only by those of higher social standing since any form of labor became impossible due to its use. Each line in Jefferys’ engraving emphasizes the elaborate patterns and lace work of the costume, which includes a pair of hand-turned cuffs.