Buttons Parade - Military and civilian uniform buttons in Malta –18th to 21st century

The invention of the button goes back to at least 5000 years when they were originally used for ornamental
purposes. Eventually, in the Middle Ages, buttons became a means by which to fasten clothing. This
function has continued to develop along the centuries. Buttons are a fascinating subject to delve into. They
have been made from most imaginable materials – bone, metal, wood, plastic – handmade and
massproduced. They have fastened uniforms, formal wear and casual garments. Buttons have been
utilised by all social classes from royalty to nobility, gentry, clerics, military personnel and commoners.
Buttons Parade, Military and civilian uniform buttons in Malta –18th to 21st century narrates the story of the hundreds of buttons used in Malta by military and civilian organisations and institutions from the 18th to the 21st century. Each button is placed in its historical context which supports and scaffolds its concept, design, use, and eventual withdrawal. Drawings, photos and narratives thus help the reader to understand each
featured button in an allround context. George Cassar and Denis A. Darmanin transports the reader
through history on a voyage which spans time, customs, events, human realties, political deliberations,
social conventions, economic necessities and basic exigencies.