Victorian Golf Cape, ca. 1898

A cheerful cape made of double navy blue wool fabric with alternating red, green, navy blue and cream check patterns, fringes on the shoulder pieces and the front opening. It was worn by ladies playing golf. It has an adjustable collar and a shaped tab closure with brass buttons at the front and back of the neck. Hook and eye closure at the neck. There is light wear, some small tears and moderately tarnished buttons, one of which is loose. Condition: Excellent.

In the 1890s, golf was one of the few sports practiced by ladies. Ladies played in elegant clothing, often consisting of long skirts and tailored blouses, which restricted their freedom of movement. In the fall, capes were worn with these clothes to protect against the cold and wet. Despite the challenges of dress and the social norms of the time, golf enjoyed growing popularity among ladies, and many women golfers of the time showed remarkable skill and enthusiasm for the sport. 

Length: ~ 70 cm