Drawn bonnet
The fine silk taffeta in a muted shade of dove grey forms a shape popular in the 1840s. Often referred to as a drawn bonnet, in this type of protective head covering the silk is usually drawn and ruched over cane or whalebone supports. A ruffle of (now faded) lilac ribbon and fabric flower trim evoke its heyday in the sun. The shape of this daytime bonnet framed the face but also shaded the complexion from damaging rays. The ‘bavolet’ frill also protected the nape of the neck. This gave the wearer a look of feminine modesty in keeping with the prevailing view of how women should look and behave, especially when out in public.
Drawn bonnets were often reserved for afternoon wear and the choice of silk and trimmings would make this piece dressy enough to warrant a place at a more formal occasion, perhaps at a wedding.
Drawn bonnets were often reserved for afternoon wear and the choice of silk and trimmings would make this piece dressy enough to warrant a place at a more formal occasion, perhaps at a wedding.
Object Summary
- Accession Loan No.
- 200/1976
- Collection Class
- Clothing and accessories
- Material
- silk taffetaWhaleboneWire
- Common Name
- Drawn bonnet
- Simple Name
- bonnet
- Period Classification
- Victorian (1837-1901)
- Production Year Low
- 1845
- Production Year High
- 1849
