BK-1991-4
c. 1800 - c. 1810
Medium
horsehair
Dimensions
7; 15
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Luifelhoed van gevlochten, naturelkleurig middelfijn stro versierd met ornamenten van gevlochten blond paardenhaar en doorzichtige glazen kraaltjes. Ondiepe bol met rechte achterkant. Gevoerd met effen blauw katoen.
Art Historical Context
### BK-1991-4: Luifelhoed (Sunshade Bonnet), c. 1800–1810 This delicate luifelhoed, or sunshade bonnet, is a charming example of early 19th millinery craftsmanship. Crafted from braided natural-colored medium-fine, it forms a shallow dome-shaped crown with a straight back offering practical shade for the wearer. The bonnet is adorned with intricate ornaments of braided blond horsehair and sparkling transparent glass beads, adding a touch of elegance. Lined with plain blue cotton comfort, it measures approximately 7 cm high and 15 cm deep, making it a compact yet functional accessory. Dating to around 1800–1810, this anonymous work reflects the Regency-era fashion popular in Europe, particularly in Dutch-speaking regions where such items were common. Straw braiding was a widespread technique among rural artisans, valued for its lightweight durability and breathability in warm weather. The use of horsehair—blond and meticulously woven—highlights skilled needlework traditions, often passed down through women's communities, blending utility with subtle decoration. Culturally, luifelhoeden protected delicate complexions during outdoor activities, embodying ideals of femininity and modesty. Though modest in scale, this piece showcases the artistry of everyday objects, preserving a glimpse into daily life two centuries ago. A testament to humble materials elevated by human ingenuity! (198 words)
About the Artist
anonymous
In the vast tapestry of art history, "Anonymous" stands not as a singular individual but as a collective designation for countless unidentified creators whose works have endured across millennia. These artists, spanning prehistoric cave painters to medieval illuminators and folk craftsmen, produced the foundational layers of human visual culture. Prior to the Renaissance, when individual fame emer...