Man's Bicorne Hat and Box

Currently not on view

Man's Bicorne Hat and Box

1912

Artist/maker unknown, American Worn by Fairman Furness (American, 1889–1971)

Hats with the brim folded up on two sides (a variant on the earlier three-cornered hat) were adopted by young fops in the late eighteenth century. Bicornes, as they later came to be called, could be worn pointed front to back or, as Napoleon preferred, side to side. Long after the fashion for bicornes passed, they remained part of many uniforms, including formal diplomatic wear. For this ceremonial role, the crescent-shaped hats were not usually worn on the head, but carried flat under the arm as what became known as chapeau bras.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Titles:

Man's Bicorne Hat and Box

Date:

1912

Artists:

Artist/maker unknown, American Worn by Fairman Furness (American, 1889–1971)

Medium:

Felted fur, ostrich feathers, couched metallic purls with metal sequins, silk grosgrain ribbon, silk and metal faille, silk velvet, brass button

Classification:

Costume (including accessories)

Credit Line:

Gift of Fairman Furness, 1963

Accession Number:

1963-11-1e,f

Geography:

Made in Russia, Asia

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.

Currently not on view