Calash
Date1775-1785
OriginEngland
MediumSilk, reed or cane
DimensionsOverall height including ruffle: 15 1/2"
Depth, as worn: about 8"
Face opening width when tied closed: about 8"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1960-723
DescriptionWoman's calash or collapsible bonnet fashioned of dark green silk taffeta with rose silk lining. The bonnet has five reed or cane ribs in the crown and one inserted horizontally around the neck above the neck ruffle. Green silk ribbons tie at neck.Label TextCalashes had a series of reeds or other flexible materials inserted between channels in the silk to hold the bonnet away from the head and thus preserve elaborate hair styles from being crushed. The name of the calash came from a type of carriage with a folding hood, not unlike the cloth convertible top on a modern automobile.
ProvenanceEx Coll: Doris Langley Moore.
Exhibition(s)
