traditional vs. classic

[Jock Scot]

I have a question for the experts out there. I am fascinated by this picture (as with most of the portraits from that collection):




My interest here is on the fellow at the right side of the picture. He's wearing the Colquhoun tartan, which is why he caught my eye. I notice that he's got a basket hilt sword and what looks to be a targe on his left arm. The rest of his wardrobe seems to be military style stuff as well. Aside from the weapons, would this have been limited to men in military service, or was it common to see men dressed like this in civilian life?

But the real question I have is what kind of hat is he wearing? It's not a Balmoral, Glengarry, Tam O'Shanter, or anything else I'm familiar with. Is it strictly a military piece of headgear, or would this have been commonly seen as well?

I think we are in danger for falling into the trap that the artist may have intended. I do not believe for one second that the attire worn by the gentlemen in this and other like pictures was normal daywear for Scots, even well to do ones. These pictures should be regarded as nothing else than trying to "sell" the romance of Scotland. We can all dig out our Sunday best,or a Dress uniform and pose for a picture, but we all know that is not and never will be, normal wear.

I think the hat in question is known as a "hummel".