Cap and Coif with Oorijzer ornament

ca. 1850

Not on view

Distinctly Dutch, the metal frame– called an Oorijzer ("Ear-Iron")– can be glimpsed underneath a lace cap with long lappets 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 late 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 flat square plates are particularly associated with the island community of Zuid Beveland, which is in the Zeeland region.

Artwork Details

Overview

Title: Cap and Coif with Oorijzer ornament
Date: ca. 1850
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: 1970.81.1a–c
Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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