Handkerchief

Art Historical Context

Step into the refined world of 19th French fashion with this charming *Handkerchief* from 1880, from fine linen by an unknown artist. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume, this piece was generously donated by Mrs. Graham Bennett 1950, preserving a slice of everyday elegance from the Belle Époque. Linen, a lightweight and breathable natural fiber prized for its durability and subtle sheen, was a staple in high-quality textiles, making it ideal for personal accessories like handkerchiefs carried by both men and women. In late 19th-century France, handkerchiefs transcended mere uti...