When it comes to antique hats, this one is the real deal!

I tried to come up with the best, most technically accurate term for this hat, but came up at a bit of a loss. It reminds me a lot of the smoking hats that were popular during the end and turn of the 19th century, however, this isn't the right shape and is missing the tassel. I then realized that the cross on top lends it a religious or mystical air, so I began looking at Kufi, Taqiyah and Topi hats, and they were the closest I could find to this example. But, it is difficult to find antique versions of these hats online, for comparison, so I use the terms only very loosely.
This hat is made of a midnight black velvet with a short pile. The edge is completely decorated with a flora-theme design consisting of braided metal flat trim, tiny faceted metal beads, golden knotted silk thread, and light mahogany brown silk twist thread. The same materials are used for the design on top of hat -as mentioned before, it is an elaborate cross shape, featuring clover leaf like shapes. The inside of the cap is lined with a pinkish silk fabric and features diamond stitch pattern reinforcement. Not marked with any labels or maker's marks. Overall condition is very good, with mild wear to the lining (light fray one spot), some missing beads and tack-stitching, and very lightly misshapen from former owner/storage. Please review photographs for full details.

Measurements:

- 7 inches across diameter
- 21 inches around inner rim
- 2 3/4 inch height

Feel free to contact me with any questions or inquiries!

♥,
Miss Master

This item is sold from an excellent, highly rated vintage boutique in New York, New York.