Every time I think I've seen it all, I learn something new. This time it was about "secret companions" - the 17th and 18th century equivalent of today's cardboard cutouts. You can read about this interesting artform here:

History Of The Silent Companions

And I so know what I'll buy myself sooner or later...!

A very friendly lady asked me for help with the identification of an original 18th century "silent companion". She thought it was a navy officer. However, seeing "red", my first thought was "marine!", but as it's difficult to tell what the original colour of the cuffs was (could be blue, indicating French), I'm not so sure anymore. For an American officer, the artwork seems to be too old. As my knowledge regarding uniforms is lamentably lacking when it comes to anything outside of the Royal Navy, I hope one of you can help me and the lady who does those beautiful artworks.



The coquarde on the hat is rather special. I can't see enough of the sword to use that as a reference; however, he's got one epaulette on his right shoulder.

From the cut of the coat I'd date this to the mid-18th century, but I'm not an expert. Any idea who this elegant gentleman might be?