Pudding Cap

Date1770-1785

MediumCotton velvet, horsehair padding, leather lining, silk ribbon.

DimensionsH: 4 3/4"; Dia.:7 1/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1952-55

DescriptionPadded circle of green-blue cotton velvet with four padded shaped pieces forming a crown, fastened with rosette of blue ribbon. Trimmed with ribbon knots and bound with same ribbon. Lined with white leather.

Construction History:

1. 1770-1785: Initial Construction
2. March 15, 1954: Cleaning, repairing, restoring by Ernest LoNano
Label TextPadded caps known as puddings served as crash helmets for unsteady toddlers learning to walk. The cap apparently got its name from its resemblance to pudding molds used in kitchens. The affectionate phrase "pudding head" comes from these caps many toddlers wore.
ProvenanceFrom the collection of Mrs. DeWitt Clinton Cohen.