Tabard Collection
A tabard, known as a hospital nurse warning jacket, has a rich history that spans across different cultures and time periods
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A tabard, known as a hospital nurse warning jacket, has a rich history that spans across different cultures and time periods. It holds significance in various contexts, from the pilgrims departing on their journey to Canterbury in Chaucer's tales to the King of Arms of the Order of the Golden Fleece documenting Jacques de Lalaing. The Tabard Inn in Southwark served as a gathering place for pilgrims embarking on the famous pilgrimage route. This inn became an iconic symbol along the pilgrim's way, where stories were shared and friendships formed. In terms of fashion, tabards played a role in Italian dress during the 15th century and Florentine costume during the 16th century. They adorned individuals like Stephan Baumgartner, a patrician from Nurnburg in 1512. Interestingly, even Scottish history is intertwined with tabards. John Balliol, also known as "Toom Tabard, " wore this empty coat as he reigned as King of Scots from c. ?1249 - 1314. His seal can be found in Iconographia Scotica or Portraits of Illustrious Persons of Scotland published in 1797. Tabards have also made appearances within religious settings such as cathedral interiors featuring Christopher Columbus' tomb carved out of wood. Additionally, color lithographs depict Canterbury Pilgrims at "The Tabard" during the 14th century. From historical accounts to artistic representations like Sacred Love painted on canvas in 1888, it is evident that tabards hold cultural significance throughout centuries. Whether worn by nurses or featured prominently among pilgrims and kings alike, these garments continue to captivate our imagination and tell stories that transcend time.