Historical information

This hat is one commonly called a fez but there are many variations of the style and colour and many different names according to the country or group wearing this type of hat. The name fez comes from the city of Fez, the capital of Morocco up to 1927. This style of hat was part of the traditional clothing of Cyprus and introduced into the Balkan countries in the Byzantine era. In the early 1800s it was made part of men’s clothing by the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire and was used particularly as part of the military uniform. Today in military circles it is used as part of a dress uniform only but is extensively worn by men in many countries and is now seen to be part of oriental cultural identity. This particular fez appears to be a theatrical prop.

Significance

This hat is not an authentic one, being a theatrical piece, but it will be useful for display.

Physical description

This is a short cylindrical peakless hat made of cardboard covered with a burgundy-coloured felt. There is a black tassel attached to the top and hanging down the side of the hat. The inside of the hat has a green and white striped material around the edge and patterned material covering the rest of the inside.

Inscriptions & markings

‘8’