Historical information

This hat was probably used in both China and Australia during the 1940s as a procession garment. It is linked to the Young Chinese League.

Significance

This hat is significant for its links to the Chinese Young League. The League was formally established on 4 October 1932 to to promote free social intercourse and goodwill among its members and their mutual improvement. Membership was open to all persons, with one or both parents or grandparents born in China. Wives of Chinese members were permitted as members with the same privileges. It was a significant social organisation for Chinese-Australians in Melbourne in the mid to late twentieth century.

Physical description

A red, purple and blue silk, six paneled hat embroidered with gold braid and adorned with mirrors. Tip of hat has red, silk bobble sewn into place. Each panel is embroidered with gold and orange thread. Among the threads are eight circles of metal around one central, circle. There is a blue band around the bottom and a ribbon tie attached to one panel and it is lined with pale blue cotton fabric.

Inscriptions & markings

There is a black stamp of a Chinese character on the inside of the hat.