This burgundy velvet circa late 1800s winter bonnet hood has a wide bavolet or “curtain” panel to help keep the wearer’s neck warm in chilly weather. The velvet fabric feels like a heavy silk, and the hood and bavolet are both lined with crepe, which feels like a blend of silk and wool. The bavolet has quilted stitching, in simple diamond shapes. The relatively shallow bonnet section of the hood is gathered at the top front, and at the center back—it will fit best over a close-to-the-head hairstyle. Fuchsia silk ribbon bows trim the hood, in front and back. The bonnet’s front ties are also silk ribbon. In good condition, wearable with care, this antique Victorian hooded bonnet has several flaws to note: some wear to the velvet fabric at the bonnet edges, some soiling to the lining, most noticeable at the padded seam running along the back of the neck (not seen when worn), a tiny hole in the velvet near the gathered section at the back, and some minor discoloration to the silk bows trim. The only issue that is structural, however, is the partial shattering of the silk ribbon ties in front, which are too fragile to use (could be replaced). This circa 1880s or 1890s bonnet hood is a fabulous color!
Crown height: 17” from front ruffle to seam at back of neck
Crown depth: 10” measured flat, from side front edge to back
Back of neck seam: 12.5” across, from side to side
Bavolet: 24” from end to end, laid flat
Label: none
