Hat
c. 1853
Tan and pink velvet, green satin, brown net, brown and black lace, jet beads, and black ribbon
Gift of Eleanor F. Peck
Object number70.29.16
Historically, head coverings symbolized social distinctions such as class, religion, modesty, and taste. Headwear styles changed more frequently than clothing. Bonnets with extending brims dominated fashion during the 1830s and 1840s. By the 1850s, brims gradually receded to reveal a glimpse of center-parted hairdos. Eurocentric etiquette required women to cover their heads for most occasions outside of the home, but hats were also showcased style and individuality
DescriptionBonnet in tan ribbed velvet, bound and trimmed in olive green satin and with brown net insertion on the brim, trimmed with stiffend self bow and brown lace, peach pink velvet flower and leaves on L side, and the brim edged in black scalloped lace with jet bugle beads; black ribbon tiesCollections
Exhibitions