We are here in the presence of a modern
distinctiori, based on culture and on wealth, but on the latter solely
because it enables men to devote their life to the former, and
effectually to promote its interests and advancement.
Costumes and Fashions
But in proportion as distinctions of birth ceased to confer any special
privilege, was the individual himself compelled to make the most of his
personal qualities, and society to find its worth and charm in itself.
The demeanor of individuals, and all the higher forms of social
intercourse, became ends pursued a deliberate and artistic purpose.
Even the outward appearance of men and women and the habits of daily
life were more perfect, more beautiful, and more polished than among
the other nations of Europe. The dwellings of the upper classes fall
rather within the province of the history of art; but we may note how
far the castle and the city mansion in Italy surpassed in comfort,
order, and harmony the dwellings of the northern noble. The style of
dress varied sc continually that it is impossible to make any complete
comparison with the fashions of other countries, all the more because
since the close of the fifteenth century imitations of the latter were
frequent. The costumes of the time, as given us by the Italian
painters, are the most convenient, and the most pleasing to the eye
which were then to be found in Europe; but we cannot be sure if they
represent the prevalent fashion, or if they are faithfully reproduced
by the artist.
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