Rare Antique 1910s Plush Beaver Hat | Original Feather Trim | Precisely Dated 1912–1915 *Free Shipping

Rare Plush Beaver Hat
Titanic Era, c. 1912–1915
Free Shipping

This gorgeous and rare plush beaver hat represents the highest level of millinery craftsmanship.  It is in incredibly fine, sublime condition.  It would have been quite costly in its day.

This is a fully original period hat, not a reproduction. Precisely dated to 1912–1915, its silhouette closely reflects Paris fashion plates from the period and marks the transition away from the huge and often ostentatious Edwardian styles.  With a very wide brim and sleek lines, this would have made the ultimate fashion statement in its day.

Acquired more than thirty years ago, this hat has been one of my favorites and used for lectures and display.  

The luscious beaver felt is exceptionally fine. By the 1910s, true felted beaver had become increasingly scarce, making hats of this quality among the most costly accessories of their day. Typical of beaver hats, the felt is incredibly thick, resilient, and supple. The texture appears costly and elegant with the rich velour surface that distinguishes genuine beaver.

The original feather bouquet that trims this hat includes cygne, aigrette, and iridescent French coq.  These exqusite feathers create movement and subtle reflections of light with every step.

There is no maker's label, which is entirely typical for hats of this period. Labels did not adhere well to the felt surface, and sewn labels interrupted the clean interior finish that was designed without a lining.  

The hat is absolutely phenomenal and strong enough for wear with tender loving care.  It is guaranteed to turn heads.

*Free U.S. Shipping by USPS Priority Mail, 
beautifully packaged,
fully insured with delivery confirmation included.  
International, please inquire.

Measurements

• Circumference: approximately 22½ inches (57 cm)
• Brim: approximately 14 inches (35.5 cm)

Designed to accommodate the fuller hairstyles fashionable during the Edwardian and immediate post-Edwardian years. Please contact me with any sizing questions.

Condition

Excellent overall condition. This wide-brimmed hat is made from luxurious felt is exceptionally, unusually, well preserved.  There are no stains, holes, odors, or structural damage. The crown and brim hold their original shape with integrity.

Please note that several feathers within the original ornament are slightly loose at their attachment points. A skilled conservator or milliner could stabilize them with discreet hand stitching. 

Because of the age and delicacy of the original feather work, this hat should be worn sparingly, protected from wet conditions, and handled with tender loving care.  The exceptional condition gives this hat its value and it undoubtedly will increase in value as time moves on.

Examples of this quality, preservation, and documented period are increasingly difficult, if not almost impossible to locate.  It is comfortable to wear and utterly exquisite!