About 1620

Important as it was to dress magnificently, it was also essential to be recorded in one's finery. This is an extremely rare example of a portrait featuring a garment that still survives. The portrait shows the other garments that Margaret Laton(who died in 1641) wore with her embroidered jacket: an Italian needlelace collar and cuffs, a black velvet gown, a red silk petticoat and a whitework apron. V&A

Margaret Laton's Jacket

About 1610; altered about 1620

This jacket is an example of formal daywear worn by wealthy Englishwomen in the early 17th century. The embroidery is based on designs from pattern books, herbal and emblem books. It is of very high quality and is probably professional work. Although this one was luxurious, a jacket of this type would not have been the most formal or expensive garment in Margaret Laton's wardrobe.

Linen embroidered with silver and silver-gilt thread, coloured silks, bobbin lace and spangles (sequins).

Made in England

Worn by Margaret Laton (probably born about 1590, died 1641), wife of Francis Laton (born 1577, died 1661), a Yeoman of the Jewel House at the Tower of London.

Purchased with the assistance of the National Heritage Memorial Fund and the National Art Collection Fund, an independent charity. V&A