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Bonnet

Original OwnerPossibly originally owned by Mrs. Catharine Pettibone Root American

MillinerPossibly made by Mrs. Catharine Pettibone Root American

Dateabout 1845-1855

MediumHand-stitched and embroidered cotton, with silk ribbon, silk blonde lace, and wire

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width x depth): 7 x 7 1/2 x 5in. (17.8 x 19.1 x 12.7cm)

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Jennie Pettibone

DescriptionWoman's cap of stiff, machine-made net. The crown, which is gathered at the back of the neck, is hand-embroidered with various designs of flowers and cloverleafs. The brim is defined by four slightly-overlapping folds of a finer mesh net, with another layer of the net folded underneath the outer edge. A sheer ribbon of grey and white plaid is folded and loosely stitched around the juncture of the brim and crown. An additional decoration with ribbon, net, and disintegrating blonde lace is stitched to the lower corners of the brim. The plaid ribbon continues around the lower back of the bonnet, with decorative loops stitched where it turns on each side. The plaid ribbon is tied at the center back in a bow. The curtain is made from the smaller-mesh net, ruffled under the ribbon. The bonnet is edged all around with a double row of wire within a casing. The plaid ribbon is used for ties about thirteen inches long. A second set of narrow, cream-colored silk ties (probably a later addition) is stitched inside the first at the brim corners.

Object number1911.6.1

NotesHistorical Note: Mrs. Catharine Pettibone Root ran a millinery and dress making shop on Main Street in Hartford, Connecticut, in about 1835 or 1840.

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