Museum Collections
Luce Center
Chapeau bras with box
Object Number:
Z.2865a-d
Date:
1870-1900
Medium:
Beaver skin, textile, feathers, metal, cardboard
Dimensions:
Overall: 3 x 19 1/2 x 10 1/4 in. ( 7.6 x 49.5 x 26 cm )
Marks:
in relief: on banner above gilded metal eagle: "E PLURIBUS UNUM"
maker's label: inside top of crown: "BAKER & McKENNEY / New York."
handwritten in pencil: on bottom of box: "General William Smith"
printed paper label: affixed to top of box: "From T. H.
Description:
Flat-folding black beaver chapeau bras with black ostrich feathers lining crest; bands of black ribbon extend diagonally from base on either side, framing on front a diagonally placed, capsule-shaped cockade with a gilded metal shield-breasted eagle and button with same on gold ground at center; gold bullion fringe at each corner; black patent leather sweatband and brown silk lining; shaped cardboard box (in three pieces).
Gallery Label:
This chapeau may have belonged to William Smith, Paymaster General of the U.S. Army.
Due to ongoing research, information about this object is subject to change.