Man's Smoking Cap

Currently not on view

Man's Smoking Cap

c. 1870s

Artist/maker unknown, American

During the nineteenth century, men generally wore indoor caps only in bed. However, since gentlemen did not smoke around ladies, they withdrew to indulge in cigars, donning special jackets and smoking caps to protect their garments and hair from odor; this activity also offered a chance for escapism. Smoking caps were therefore typically exotic in shape—usually between a pillbox and a fez—and richly decorated, as shown in the woven and embroidered patterns on this example.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Man's Smoking Cap

Date:

c. 1870s

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, American

Medium:

Chartreuse and white silk satin, multicolored silk embroidery in satin stitches; black silk ribbed cord; coiled gold metal tassel

Dimensions:

Flat (without tassel): 10 x 8 x 2 inches (25.4 x 20.3 x 5.1 cm)

Classification:

Costume (including accessories)

Credit Line:

Gift of Historic Strawberry Mansion

Accession Number:

2010-180-14

Geography:

Made in United States, North and Central America

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Currently not on view