Habit of Sir Philip Sidney in 1580

by Thomas Jefferys

The superb copperplate engraving by Thomas Jefferys is a perfect example of the Renaissance ideals of an Elizabethan “Renaissance man.” Depicting the costume of Sir Philip Sidney around 1580, the print can be considered an ultimate guide to the fashionable dress of wealthy English people at the time.

The print features the complex “Habit” of the renowned poet and warrior, including: the Peascod Belly doublet (typical of masculinity in the 1580s), elegant paned trunk hose and lace ruff, as well as the sophisticated posture that defines Jefferys’ anthropologically-oriented engraving.

Indeed, Sir Philip Sidney is the epitome of courtly life in the Elizabethan times. The print is included in Thomas Jefferys’ Collection of the Dresses of Different Nations and, therefore, presents the unique transition from the 16th to the 18th century.