If you are captivated by historic clothing and accessories as I am, I believe you will fall in love with this totally original, immaculate women’s bonnet from the 1840’s. It is in a perfect state of preservation and hasn’t been ravaged by time. I’ve collected historic costume for over 40 years and after so many years searching for treasures, one gets pickier and wants even more rare and pristine things. This is one of those things: a true museum-quality piece.

I’ve had some difficulty with some of my photos showing the true colors accurately, as I talked about in my current auction of the little Civil War period boy’s outfit offered for sale. The blue is washed out in my photos and the true color is much richer.

With this bonnet, though, I’m happy to say that the colors are true to life.

I’ve had this bonnet in my collection for decades and it is about as mint as it was when new. The green silk is supple with no damage, loss, holes, stains, etc. The color I would describe as a muted moss green. It was a popular shade in women’s clothing at that time.

The bonnet is on the shape and form of the style worn in the 1840’s, with the recognizable silhouette. Row upon row of beautifully ruched, gathered silk is decorated with pale green silk ribbon in the original design and has not been altered or replaced. The floral trims are also completely original and untouched. Looking inside the bonnet, one can see the original construction methods. I have it displayed on an antique millinery mannequin(not included) and the bonnet retains its original shape with no warping or distortion.

Please look at the pictures as part of the description, but message me if you have any questions at all. I’m happy to answer and share information.

Thank you for taking the time to visit my auctions and I hope you will stop by again.