Mourning Bonnet
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Sophia Foote
American, 1800 - 1876
MillinerMade by
Mrs. Hinckley's
Date1827
MediumHand-stitched braided straw or grass with silk and wire
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (length x width x depth): 6 1/2 x 14 x 14 1/2in. (16.5 x 35.6 x 36.8cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Mary Dexter
DescriptionWoman's mourning bonnet (its history states that it was originally a wedding bonnet) of braided straw or grass dyed black, with black trimmings. The very large, flaring brim measures 6 5/8 inches wide along the center top. It curves in a wide (17 1/2 inches in diameter) circle to the crown. The brim flares at about a 135 degree angle from the crown. The brim is stiffened by wire at the edge. The crown is approximately 5 1/2 inches deep and 6 1/2 inches in diameter. The crown is lined around the inside angle with a strip of black silk and around the sides with a loosely woven, stiffened leno-weave gauze. More gauze is used to cover the seam between the brim and crown. Bands of black crepe edged with black silk encircle the crown twice with a large bow tied on each side. Crepe is also used to cover the edge of the brim and to line the inside. The ties, which are stitched to the base of the crown on the inside, are made from 1 3/4-inch-wide black silk ribbon, approximately 23 1/2 inches long and cut at the end with a swallowtail.
The braiding for this bonnet is extremely fine, and although the crown displays the customary spiral design indicating that a strip of braided material was used, it is impossible to discern the stitches attaching the strip together. Most likely grass or straw was used in lieu of thread.
The braiding for this bonnet is extremely fine, and although the crown displays the customary spiral design indicating that a strip of braided material was used, it is impossible to discern the stitches attaching the strip together. Most likely grass or straw was used in lieu of thread.
Object number1988.188.1
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