Many of the hats from our collection come from very different parts of the world. This is a circa 1850, Swiss bonnet (could also be from France or Italy) with "Bordures" used to create the shape. Bordures is the term used for bandings made on the modified Jacquard looms. They were very popular in the first part of the 19th century. The threads used in the bordures on this bonnet are darkened like aged rye. Although rye was sometimes used, wheat was a more popular material for threads. It is possible that this color may be a result of some dark dye, such as chestnut, that is no longer apparent because of its fading. All information, photographs and other artwork contained in this site are Copyrighted by The American Museum of Straw Art. Reproduction of any material is prohibited without prior written permission.