SertanejoLocation: Brazil Description: The Sertanejo is the Brazilian equivalent of the Mexican Horseman, sometimes called an Arriero. He carries goods with him over long distances, and is a kind of folk hero. His dress, therefore, is very similar to the dress of the Mexican Horseman, as it is protective and practical. The author describes a Sertanejo of whom he had made an acquaintance, and whom he depicts in this illustration, a lithographic reproduction of the original drawing: "He rode a small horse with a long tail and mane; his saddle was raised before and behind; his stirrups were of rusty iron, and his bit was of the same; the reins were two very narrow thongs. His dress consisted of long pantaloons or leggings, tied tight round his waist, and under these are worn a pair of cotton drawers or trousers, as the seat is left unprotected by the leather. He had a tanned goat skin over his breast, which was tied behind by four strings, and a jacket made of leather, which is generally thrown over one shoulder his hat was of the same, with a very shallow crown, and small brim; he had slip-shod slippers of the same colour, and iron spurs upon his naked heels, - the straps which go under the feet prevent the risk of losing the slippers" (87). The harsh sunlight, we are told, tans both the skin of the sertanejo himself and the leather of his clothing. Book Title: Travels in Brazil Plate Number: Page 87 Call Number: F2511 .K85 1816 |