Description:
Man's one-piece, front-opening cape of brown worsted wool woven in a plain weave, and lined with a green wool twill, faced with a red wool twill, and interfaced with an unbleached cotton twill. Constructed of both commercial and handmade woolen cloth, this unusual man's garment is a rare survivor. The commercial, stout woolen textiles, often domestically produced with such names as "Fearnought", "Durance" and "Everlastings", protected travelers from both rain and cold. The fashionable corded, high-standing collar held with woven brass closures on this cape gave added protection. These decorative closures and fashionable tabbed arm slits indicate that the wearer was abreast of the fashion and practical as well. The cape features a high (3 7/8") standing collar that is corded for support (each cord about 1/8" wide). The collar is seamed, but the seam does not correspond to the center back. The front edges of the collar are bound in a brown twill matching the lining of the collar; the collar is intrefaced with buckram for additional support. Five varying widths of fabric make up the body. There is a vertical opening 10 3/4" long on either side of the front for the arms; each opening is secured by a flap which closes with a single, self-fabric covered bone button. Each flap is lined in the red wool twill which faces the opening of the cape. The cape fastens on the central front with a brass hook (proper right) and eye closure. There are also five self-fabric covered buttons (also proper right) and corresponding worked buttonholes down the front. There are three vertical seams for the green wool twill lining.
Subjects:
Textile fabrics; Brass; Cotton; Wool Link to share this object record:
https://museums.fivecolleges.edu/detail.php?t=objects&type=ext&id_number=HD+2000.13 |
