Golden Brown Woven Straw Bonnet with Projecting Brim

Empire / Regency · 1810s-1820s · American

A finely woven straw bonnet displaying the characteristic Empire period silhouette with a close-fitting crown and dramatically projecting front brim that would frame and shade the face. The construction shows tight, regular weaving in a golden-brown straw, creating subtle horizontal striping patterns across the surface. The bonnet features a deep, scooped brim that extends well forward, typical of the 1810s style when bonnets became increasingly enveloping. The crown fits snugly to the head and appears to have ties or ribbons for securing under the chin. The craftsmanship demonstrates skilled straw plaiting techniques common in early 19th-century millinery, with the material's natural flexibility allowing for the bonnet's sculptural form while maintaining structural integrity.