Historical information

This velvet bonnet hat is believed to have belonged to Ellen Dowsett (1858-1953), who lived in Maidstone, Victoria in the late nineteenth century. It was donated by an Emerald resident who received it from Ellen's daughter, Ruby May Selina Wallace. The hat was likely worn between 1880 and 1910, and is an adorned, likely handmade example of the bonnet hats that remained popular at that time.

Significance

This bag is an example of handmade fashion from late 19th century Australia.

Physical description

A black velvet bonnet hat. The front is adorned with a black velvet bow, complemented by a small section of lace and a petal-like velvet section reaching upwards. The rear features two black velvet ribbons, made to tie together below the wearer's chin and secure the hat on the wearer's head. Other layers of velvet decorate the top of the hat. The inner lining uses a different black fabric and is unadorned.

Inscriptions & markings

No inscriptions