Brimmed Cap and Coif with Oorijzer ornament

ca. 1875

Not on view

Distinctly Dutch, the metal frame– called an Oorijzer ("Ear-iron")– can be glimpsed underneath a wide-brimmed lace cap and tight coif. Worn by women since at least the seventeenth century, these frames were initially purely functional and all but hidden, used to hold coifs in place. However, by the later eighteenth century, the pointed ends of these frames, sitting snuggly against the wearer's cheeks or temples, became increasingly more conspicuous and decorative. Different regions in The Netherlands favored different designs; these coils are particularly associated with the island of Walcheren, which is in the Zeeland region.

Artwork Details

Overview

Title: Brimmed Cap and Coif with Oorijzer ornament
Date: ca. 1875
Culture: Dutch, Zeeland
Medium: [no medium available]
Dimensions: [no dimensions available]
Classification: Accessory-Headwear
Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. John Ritchie Boyd, 1970
Object Number: 1970.81.2a–c
Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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