Handkerchief
Unknown Artist
third quarter 19th century
Medium
Linen
Classification
Handkerchief
Culture
American
Department
Costume Institute
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. Alvah E. Reed, 1966
Accession Number
2009.300.5503
Art Historical Context
This delicate linen handkerchief, crafted by an unknown American artist in the third quarter of the 19th century (circa 1850–1875), offers a glimpse into the everyday elegance of Victorian-era life. Housed in the Costume Institute at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, it exemplifies the fine personal accessories that were essential for both men and women, serving as pocket squares, dabbing tools for perfumes, or subtle signals in social etiquette. Linen, prized for its crisp texture, breathability, and durability, was a staple in high-quality textiles during this period, often sourced from Europ...