John Y. Mason’s Diplomatic Uniform
France 1854
This Diplomatic uniform was worn by John Y. Mason, U.S. Minister to France from 1854-1859. For many years, there was debate over the appropriate attire for U.S. diplomats serving abroad in countries where formal diplomatic uniforms were often the norm. This uniform, which Mason had custom made for himself and is based on a naval dress uniform, was designed as a compromise between the “simple dress” of a plain black suit and elaborate uniforms worn by many diplomats from other nations.
This image is in the public domain and no permission is required to use it. Please credit the National Museum of American Diplomacy as the original source, and provide a link back to the item page where possible.
Most of our items are donations, and we cannot always confirm the copyright or trademark status of photographs, prints, drawings, and other artistic works that may be depicted in these images.
Please contact us at NMAD@state.gov for any permissions or usage questions.
MLA Format
John Y. Mason's Diplomatic Uniform. 1854. National Museum of American Diplomacy, https://diplomacy.state.gov/items/john-y-masons-diplomatic-uniform
Chicago Format
John Y. Mason's Diplomatic Uniform, 1854, National Museum of American Diplomacy, Washington, DC, https://diplomacy.state.gov/items/john-y-masons-diplomatic-uniform
APA Format
(1854). John Y. Mason's Diplomatic Uniform [Object]. National Museum of American Diplomacy, Washington, D.C., United States. https://diplomacy.state.gov/items/john-y-masons-diplomatic-uniform