Woman's Cap
MillinerMade by
Unknown
Dateabout 1860-1865
MediumHand-stitched with various net lace, machine-made laces, gauze and lace, velvet ribbons, silk ribbon, starched net support, and wire
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width x depth at center top): 8 x 7 1/2 x 5in. (20.3 x 19.1 x 12.7cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Elisha H. Cooper
Object number1957.49.2
DescriptionWoman's cap, probably for half-mourning. It is trimmed with white and black laces and light purple ribbons. The brim is the only part of the cap supported by a heavily stiffened white cotton net. This piece is slightly pointed at the center top, being five inches wide and narrowing down to 1 1/2 inch wide, 8 1/2 inches down each side. Two wires are used to shape the edges of this piece. This brim piece is first edged with a white and black gauze and lace pleated trim. Layers of pleated lace and narrow velvet ribbon are overlapped across the brim piece, ending in a layer of the same pleated gauze. The ribbons encircle the cap where the crown begins. The light purple ribbon, 1 3/4 inch wide, is overlaid with black and white lace strips that continue for approximately seventeen inches beyond the bottom of the cap. The crown is made from black net overlaid by a grey embroidered net, decorated with more of the black and white lace. A confection of loops formed by the narrow velvet ribbon is stitched to the top of the crown.
Status
Not on view
