Hat

Art Historical Context

This exquisite hat, crafted around 1870 by an unknown American artist, exemplifies the refined fashion of post-Civil War America. Made from wool and silk—materials chosen for their durability and luxurious sheen—it reflects the era's emphasis on elegant, textured accessories. Wool provided warmth and structure for everyday wear, while silk added a touch of opulence, often reserved for middle- and upper-class wardrobes during the Gilded Age's early years. In the 1870s, American women's fashion drew from European influences like the Victorian bustle silhouette, where hats served as crowning statements of style and social status. Adorned or simply shaped, such pieces were essential for completing daytime ensembles, blending practicality with personal expression. This hat offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship of the Costume Institute's collection, highlighting how clothing embodied cultural identity and evolving tastes. Now part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's holdings through the Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection (gift of Mrs. John D. Newton, 1945; transferred 2009), it invites visitors to appreciate the artistry in everyday objects, preserving a slice of 19th-century American life.