Habit of Moorish Pilgrims Returning from Mecca in 1568

by Thomas Jefferys

The 1768 engraving from Thomas Jefferys offers an intriguing insight into the clothing style and traditions of North African pilgrims in the middle of the 16th century. This print reflects on the "habit" of Moorish pilgrims that had been described in earlier times in 1568.

The print focuses on the particular dress change that happened when pilgrims returned from Mecca. The print demonstrates the use of the haik, which was a piece of rectangular cloth skillfully draped around the body. Moreover, the attention to protecting the head and walking sticks is emphasized.