Top Hat
RetailerSold by
Collins & Co.
(American, founded 1851)
HatterMade by
Unknown
Dateabout 1861
MediumHand-stitched silk plush, silk, cardboard, rubberized fabric, and metal
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width x depth): 7 1/8 x 10 1/2 x 11 7/8in. (18.1 x 26.7 x 30.2cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1992.49.8
DescriptionBlack silk plush top hat with a narrow black ribbon hat band with a metal buckle. The brim is narrow (2-inches) and flat. The crown is slightly flared towards the top on the sides; the front and back of the crown are almost straight. The sweatband is black rubberized fabric; the original owner rolled newspaper, dated 1861, and tucked it inside the sweatband to make the hat fit better. The back of the sweatband is laced with a drawstring, also in an attempt to make it fit better. The underside of the brim is lined with black basket-weave fabric. The crown is lined with paper.
Status
Not on view
