Suit
About 1780-1790, 18th century
Gift of Mrs. Herbert Molson
M18005.1-3
© McCord Museum
Description
Keywords:  Suit (38)

Description

The owner of this elegant suit was Dr. Philippe Louis François Badelart of Québec City, who listed his profession as surgeon. He was known as a man of excellent reputation, financial substance and social prominence. Dr. Badelart often treated the sick free of charge, and frequently gave monies to the poor. He held many positions, including that of Surgeon of the Canadian Militia and President of the Quebec Medical Society. Made of salmon-coloured cut velvet in the collared style of a "French frock", the garment is typical of the era's trend in masculine clothing away from more elaborate dress.

Exhibition Label

The suit reveals a personal side of the doctor who published instructions for treating a deadly syphilis-like disease ravaging the north shore of the Lower St. Lawrence, the "Mal de la Baie St. Paul," in 1784. Arriving in Canada in 1757, Badelart was remembered as a fashionable man, "dressing as a Parisian would." The original vivid orange of this suit can best be observed in the pleats at the lower edge of the back of the coat.

Text from the exhibition 90 Treasures, 90 Stories, 90 Years