Dandy Caricature | A New Coat | 1826

Newly released from my collection is this rare and extremely funny caricature of a dandy, dated 1826 and presented in its original frame. Caricatures of dandies this early are rarely seen outside museums. This was the era of Beau Brummel, who some consider the first true dandy, and who pioneered a very tailored, simple style of dressing that was the complete opposite of the overblown, foppish styles that were popular in the 18th century. His ideas on menswear were the precursor to modern suiting.The caption on this print reads, “Deuce takem! It fits like a Purser’s shirt on a hand-spike!” In other words, the gentleman is complaining that his extremely slim-cut jacket is too voluminous. Sort of reminds me of that ultra-skinny suit that has been fashionable for men to wear since the 2010s, which looks good on almost no one. The Regency era, however, was a singularly attractive era for menswear. Condition is very good save for some wear to the frame. The paper backing was replaced by whoe