Item Description
Antique wooden hat mold, also commonly referred to as a hat block or millinery form. Used by milliners (hat makers), this form was an essential tool for shaping felt or straw into various hat styles over the block, often using steam to help the fabric conform to the mold's specific shape and size.
This particular example is a two-part mold, consisting of a separate crown and brim piece along with both a leather and woven belt banding. The numbers visible on the side (like "49" and "335" and 7 1/8) indicate specific measurements or identification codes for that particular style and size.
More than likely hand-carved from hardwoods like fruitwood, oak, or pine to withstand the heat and moisture of the hat-making process and dating from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. Many well-preserved examples found today originated from English or French millinery shops. This one is presented on a stationary turned pedestal standard and surmounted on a plinth base.
Dimensions: 15 3/4" H x 12 1/4" W x 11" D
Condition: some stable age cracks to the wood on the brim and some deterioration to the leather banding. The pine plinth base is slightly warped and the pedestal rocks but is stable for display.
Authorized dealer on
JOIN OUR MAILING LIST
Powered by AuctionNinja
Authorized dealer on
|| Our Locations ||
Bridgeport, CT - Get Directions | Greenwich, CT - Get Directions | Waltham, MA - Get Directions | Apex, NC - Get Directions | Fairfield, CT - Get Directions | Southport, CT - Get Directions