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Suit

1979 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

This three-piece suit by the bespoke menswear firm Brink and Kappel Ltd. was worn by Sir John Plumb (1911-2001), one of the leading British historians of the 20th century. Plumb spent most of his working life at Christ's College, Cambridge where his stature as a scholar was acknowledged by a steady stream of honours. In parallel, Plumb also became known for the panache with which he dressed. Within the fairly conservative dress code of academic life, Sir John chose suits, ties and shirts that were often remarked upon.

According to an obituary written by historian Simon Schama (who incidentally was taught by Plumb), Sir John 'was hardly your standard-issue cloistered, pipe-puffing don. He favoured loudly striped shirts, soft-brimmed blue fedoras, fast cars and big, dark coats'. This suit, with its impeccable bespoke details, was a staple in the stylish wardrobe of an influential scholar.

Object details

Categories
Object type
Parts
This object consists of 3 parts.

  • Trousers
  • Jacket
  • Waistcoat
Materials and techniques
Woven wool
Brief description
Suit, M, navy wool pinstripe, Brink and Kappel Ltd., 1979, Britain
Dimensions
  • Weight: 2.06kg
Credit line
Bequeathed by Sir John Plumb
Summary
This three-piece suit by the bespoke menswear firm Brink and Kappel Ltd. was worn by Sir John Plumb (1911-2001), one of the leading British historians of the 20th century. Plumb spent most of his working life at Christ's College, Cambridge where his stature as a scholar was acknowledged by a steady stream of honours. In parallel, Plumb also became known for the panache with which he dressed. Within the fairly conservative dress code of academic life, Sir John chose suits, ties and shirts that were often remarked upon.

According to an obituary written by historian Simon Schama (who incidentally was taught by Plumb), Sir John 'was hardly your standard-issue cloistered, pipe-puffing don. He favoured loudly striped shirts, soft-brimmed blue fedoras, fast cars and big, dark coats'. This suit, with its impeccable bespoke details, was a staple in the stylish wardrobe of an influential scholar.
Collection
Accession number
T.194:1 to 3-2009

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Record createdAugust 4, 2009
Record URL
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