This is a striking antique Victorian mourning cape / mantelet or capelet, beautifully decorated with silk ribbon on net over a black cotton base and with brown rickrack applied in a floral design through its centre. This antique Victorian mourning cape is circle cut, very wide at the bottom and has a collar. It has a single hook and eye closure at the neck and another just below and also secures with black silk ribbon ties just a little lower. Black clothing worn during mourning was in vogue during the Victorian period, following the example of Queen Victoria who wore only black for many years after the loss of her husband Prince Albert.
Age: Late Victorian era, circa 1880 - 1900.
Color: Black
Sizing: This antique Victorian mourning cape should fit a range of medium sizes. The piece measures 15 1/2” around the neckline and flares out to 112” along the bottom edge. It has a length of 26” measured straight down the back.
Condition: The gossamer silk collar on this antique Victorian mourning cape has a large hole as well as a number of smaller holes in it (see last close-up photo). You can try to patch it or simply replace the collar - I will say that it isn’t an area that is stressed by movement so probably would last a while in its present state. The only other issue is that the cotton backing is unfinished at the hemline - why, I’m unsure, but this doesn’t show in any case as it is under the netting and ribbon at the bottom. It could be finished in a proper hem should you wish. Otherwise, this antique Victorian mourning cape is intact and looks great - should last for many more years with proper care.
Wonderful antique Victorian mourning cape!