Victorian Cape, ca. 1860s

This magnificent cape dates from the time of the American Civil War. It is a typical cape that was worn with round crinoline dresses. Made of emerald velvet and decorated with a border showing geometric patterns in green, black and cream, it also has a quilted green silk lining on the inside. The cape is in good condition. The velvet shows signs of wear; the silk ribbon is coming loose in a few places; there is a small tear in the chest area (at the point where the cape is closed with hooks) and signs of wear on the lining. Nevertheless, it remains a unique and rare piece of clothing from the southern states of America. The decoration is not included. The American Civil War, which lasted from 1861 to 1865, was a significant and bloody chapter in the history of the United States. The conflict erupted between the northern states (Union) and the southern states (Confederacy), mainly over profound disagreements about the institution of slavery.

Length: ~ 70 cm