Diga-me como andam teus negros e te direi quem és: um estudo sobre a indumentária escrava como fator de distinção social no período colonial brasileiro

Abstract

The present work aims to understand how the slave masters used their servants as a tool to demonstrate their wealth and to differentiate themselves socially. As a methodology, this work relies on bibliographical and documentary research, the latter being based on the paintings of Jean Baptiste Debret. To do so, the study addresses the context in which the black root was inserted in Brazil, its functions within the Colony, as well as the way the black dress is represented in the records of Jean Baptiste Debret. In addition, the main employment prospects for blacks are discussed and how these were reflected in their clothing. Subsequently, the relationship between the black dress and the demonstration of wealth and social distinction is discussed, in order to prove that the clothes and accessories used by the captives portrayed their position in the slave hierarchy, as well as the financial condition of its owner.