Buff Jerkin of Hendrik Casimir I 1630 - 1640

This is a buff jerkin, a type of protective vest, which belonged to Hendrik Casimir I. It's made from thick, tanned leather, likely cattle hide, and was crafted by an anonymous artisan. The material itself, buff leather, is the key to understanding this garment. The thick hide offered significant protection, and the subtle cream color comes directly from the tanning process. You can see that the maker has carefully cut and shaped the leather, using simple stitching to hold the panels together. Note the way the skirt flares out, allowing for movement while on horseback. The production of buff leather was a skilled trade in its own right, requiring specialized knowledge of animal hides and tanning techniques. This jerkin represents a significant investment of labor, from the raising of the cattle to the tanning and fabrication of the garment. It's a reminder that even seemingly simple objects can embody complex histories of making and social value.