Cap

Date1730-1750 materials, remade 20th century

MediumSilk on cotton; silk lining

DimensionsTop to bottom: 7 3/4"

Credit LineAnonymous gift

Object number1971-1372

DescriptionMan's domed cap of white cotton embroidered in polychrome silks in exotic flowers of reds, blue, light green, brown, and cream. High domed crown made in four sections. Scalloped turned-up cuff is edged with woven looped tape edging. Silk polychrome "fly" fringe combined to form top tassel. Silk lining. One area of embroidery was cut and appliqued to the brim to fill out the design.
Label TextThis cap has been made up from eighteenth-century silk embroidery, cut up and arranged to form crown and brim pieces. The motifs were not designed specifically to shape for the cap pieces, an indication that old pieces were reused to make a cap. In typical embroidered caps, the needlework follows the shape of each piece. In one area, the needlework has been cut from the original source appliqued over the ground fabric, further suggesting the cap was made up of scraps. The date of the remaking may be as late as the twentieth century.
ProvenanceEx Coll: Tomlinson, Mrs. DeWitt Clinton Cohen.