CHILD'S OR DOLL'S ANTIQUE DEEP PURPLE VELVET WITH IRIDESCENT BEADS BONNET

Description

I am listing several exquisite antique bonnets made for a young girl.  I am thinking these would also fit a large doll.  This one is absolutely stunning.  I believe it was made as a mourning bonnet.  The velvet is a deep blue purple color.  It is decorated with lots of small and large faceted sparkling iridescent purple glass beads sewn to the outer edge.   There is a tabby bow on top.  The ties are intact.  One side has a bow tied in it.  At first I thought they had torn, but the shorter side tie appears finished off at the bottom, so I believe this is how the bonnet was made.  In this collection there was also a black mourning bonnet.  If I remember correctly, I think it was customary to change to purple as the mourning period progressed.  This bonnet is signed inside.  The name of the maker is Mme E. Rallings.  I believe the abbreviation Mme is the French for Madame, so I assume this bonnet like at least two of the others is from France.   The bottom edges are about 4 1/2" across with the bonnet in a relaxed position, like the others it will open to at least 6".  The depth from back to front is also 6".  Both the interior and the exterior are in extraordinarly good condition