Hat

Date1745-1775

MediumHorsehair, bast fiber.

DimensionsDiameter: 18 3/4"; Crown diameter: 6 1/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1953-868

DescriptionWoman's circular hat with very low crown, 3/4" high, and wide flat brim. Hat is made of black woven horsehair with allover repeat of 4 squares arranged in small cross. Black grosgrain ribbon binds the edges of the brim and crown. No lining.

Construction History:

1. 1745-1775: Initial construction
2. May 23, 1955: Cleaning, checking, restoring by Ernest LoNano.
Label TextWoman's Hat
Britain, 1745-1775
Horsehair woven with bast fiber, bound with silk
1953-868
Hats with large brims and shallow crowns were popular during most of the eighteenth century. Although many hats were straw or silk-covered straw, this example is made of horsehair fabric similar to upholstery material used on chairs.

ProvenanceEx coll: James Frere, Bluemantle Pursuivant, college of Heralds, Exhibited London Museum, Lancaster House.