Created by
The United Hatters of North American, American, 1896 - 1995
Subject of
Black Fashion Museum, American, 1979 - 2007
Date
1940s - 1960s
Medium
wool felt, leather, synthetic silk grosgrain ribbon, synthetic plain weave lining (possibly rayon) synthetic yarn (possibly acrylic), nylon cording, metal wire, metallic paint, and adhesive
Dimensions
H x W x D: 5 1/2 × 9 3/4 × 12 1/4 × 22 1/2 in. (14 × 24.8 × 31.1 × 57.2 cm)
Description
A men’s black derby hat made from stiff black wool felt that has been blocked to shape. The slightly upturned hat brim extends 2” at the center front and 1.75” at the center back. A black 7/8” grosgrain ribbon is stitched along the base of the hat and is secured with a 4.25” black bow that has been handstitched to the proper left side. A brown 2” wide leather band is sewn along the inner crown and is joined at the center back. The band is adhesive-backed and has an embossed at the proper left side with a maker label and around the upper edge with a border detail. A faux fur tassel is attached to the center back inner band with tacking stitches. The hat is lined with two pieces of cream-colored synthetic lining material – one piece for the crown and one piece for the hat sides. The center back seam of the lining is folded and tucked, instead of sewn. A label is embossed on the leather inner band that reads [STYLES DISTINTIVE / QUALITY / SUPREME / FOR FINE TRADE]. A label printed into the interior crown lining reads [STYLES DISTINTIVE / QUALITY / SUPREME / FOR FINE TRADE] within a shield symbol. A black paper tag attached behind the inner band with adhesive reads [7/8].
Collection title
Black Fashion Museum Collection
Classification
Clothing - Fashion and Historical
Type
derbies (hats)
hats
Topic
Clothing and dress
Fashion
Millinery
Credit Line
Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of the Black Fashion Museum founded by Lois K. Alexander-Lane
Object number
2007.3.527
Restrictions & Rights
No known copyright restrictions
Proper usage is the responsibility of the user.
GUID
http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5b2fdf3f8-697d-4188-9fb5-90ebb1c1fc93

Cataloging is an ongoing process and we may update this record as we conduct additional research and review. If you have more information about this object, please contact us at NMAAHCDigiTeam@si.edu

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