Pierre-Thomas Le Clerc

Man in Black

About the Artwork

Guidelines for appropriate mourning attire for members of society at various removes from the royal family were continually updated in journals and almanacs, making mourning a major sartorial event. Men were required to wear black ensembles made of wool during the first stage of full court mourning (as shown here), in addition to pleureuses (literally, mourners) — bands of white linen or cambric — around their sleeve cuffs, as well as strips of black crepe fabric around their hats and swords.

Designed by Pierre-Thomas Le Clerc (French, Paris 1740–1796), engraved by Etienne Claude Voysard (French, Paris 1746–1812), Gallerie des modes et costumes français. 37e. Cahier des Costumes Français. 29e. Suite d'Habillemens à la mode en 1781. NN.212, ca. 1781.

Text from: Ruffles & Ribbons: Fashion Plates from the Time of Marie Antoinette. © 2026 The Frick Collection.

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Pierre-Thomas Le Clerc

Man in Black

About the Artwork

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