JAY'S Mourning Bonnet, London, 1888

This rare Victorian mourning bonnet, dating to the late 19th century, is a poignant example of historic widow’s attire, crafted from crinkly “crape anglaise” fabric - a distinctive textile used exclusively for mourning garments, with its spelling (“crape” rather than “crepe”) signifying its solemn purpose. This bonnet would have been worn during second mourning, when attire remained somber but allowed for more texture and variation than full mourning.

In very good condition, the bonnet shows minimal signs of age and use, with shattering visible on the chin ribbons, consistent with the delicate nature of the materials. It retains its original structure and emotional resonance, making it a rare survivor of Victorian mourning fashion. Please note: decorative items shown in some images are not included.

This piece evokes the legacy of Jay’s London General Mourning Warehouse, established in 1841 and renowned for its wide range of mourning clothing and accessories, catering to both the lower middle classes and affluent Londoners. As mourning customs evolved, so did Jay’s, eventually offering somber everyday wear alongside traditional funeral attire.

This rare crape anglaise mourning bonnet is ideal for collectors of antique headwear, mourning memorabilia, or museum-quality fashion artifacts, offering a tangible link to the rituals, craftsmanship, and social history of Victorian England.