#1580 $500
Raffia floral summer bonnet, c.1885
Bonnets from the late Victorian period were pure embellishment with no pretext of function. This charming floral whimsy was meant as more of a hair ornament than a shiled from the weather.
The bonnet is built upon a wire-stiffened base bordered with black velvet and lined with black silk. The top is covered with a profusion of looped raffia and small fabric flowers. I love the cheerful gold flowers.
There is a paper label under the lining that reads "Fine Millinery/Temple Place/Boston/Geo. M. Wethern."
The condition is excellent. It looks like it was never worn.
It measures 6" from the front to back and 5 1/2" across.
