D. Pedro II and the coats of the empire: the meanings of power in male attire of the Brazilian Second Empire

Abstract:

After the French Revolution, the sumptuary laws were virtually abolished and social distinction has become increasingly marked by unwritten conventions in the form of wear both in Europe and in Brazil. In the nineteenth century, the male wardrobe symbolized belonging to the aristocracy and high bourgeoisie, which were inspired by romanticism and liberalism. What would distinguish the well-born were the coats, top hats, walking sticks, pocket watches and black clothes. The emperor d. Pedro II to let retract using these symbols made it clear that it was not just an ordinary citizen, but belonged to the long term tradition of European aristocracy.

Keywords:
clothing; nineteenth century; power; male wardrobe; Brazil