The Dungiven Costume -- a 16thc Anglo-Irish Man's Outfit

Introduction

In April 1956, a farmer living near Dungiven, County Derry brought into the Belfast Museum and Art Gallery a suit of clothes that he found while digging peat on his farm. The clothing found consisted of a woolen semi-circular cloak, a jacket, tartan trews, and a leather belt and shoes. Contemporary examples (McClintock) suggest a probable date of the late 16th century.

The jacket is constructed very simply. Contrary to the usual cutting techniques...

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