Offered here is a distinguished vintage velvet academic mortarboard by Bentley & Simon Inc., an established New York firm known for producing quality academic regalia since 1912.

This classic doctoral-style cap is covered in deep black velvet, now softened with time into a gentle, matte patina that speaks to age and use. The square mortarboard measures approximately 9 1/2 inches across, with a traditional structured form that remains intact and well-balanced.

A handsome gold metallic tassel is affixed at the center, featuring a decorative button and chain-link style strands—an elegant detail typically associated with higher academic regalia. The edging is finished with a faille ribbon band, adding both durability and a subtle textural contrast.

Inside, the cap is lined in a smooth satin-like fabric, most likely rayon, gathered neatly into a circular crown. The original maker’s label remains clearly present, reading “Bentley & Simon Inc., Academic Costumers, New York, Established 1912,” along with a size marking of 7.

**Condition:**
This piece is in good vintage condition. The velvet shows light, even wear and gentle flattening consistent with age, with slight wear noted along the edges. The interior lining remains clean and structurally sound. A well-preserved example with honest character.

**A Note on History & Use:**
Velvet mortarboards such as this were typically reserved for doctoral or advanced academic regalia, lending the piece a sense of ceremony and accomplishment. Today, it makes a striking decorative object for a study, library, or collection of academic or theatrical costume.

A thoughtful addition for the collector of vintage textiles, academic history, or meaningful decorative objects with a story to tell.

There is something particularly enchanting about early millinery work, where artistry met movement—and this rare fruit spray is a beautiful example of that fleeting elegance.

Dating to approximately the 1910s to early 1920s, this German-made hat embellishment was designed to adorn a generous brim, trailing gracefully along the silhouette. Its length—an impressive 13 inches—suggests it was meant to be seen, not tucked away.

The berries themselves are formed of an early molded composition material, softly luminous with a pearlescent blush tone that shifts gently in the light. Their organic, slightly irregular shapes only add to their charm, evoking ripened fruit at the height of summer. Unlike later plastics, these early materials possess a quiet depth and warmth that is difficult to replicate.

Of special note is the variation in construction:

* Some fruits are firmly wired into place along the stem
* Others are attached with narrow cloth ties, allowing a subtle and delightful movement

This interplay would have brought the trim to life when worn, catching both light and motion.

The leaves, now aged to a deep, almost blackened tone, appear to be formed from stiffened fabric or treated paper, contributing to the piece’s rich contrast and antique character.

Still present is a partial paper tag reading “Made in Germany,” a wonderful detail that grounds the piece historically and adds to its authenticity and collector appeal.

## **Condition:**

Good antique condition.

* A few of the smaller berries have detached from their original wire mounts and will require gentle reattachment if desired
* Overall structure remains intact and displayable
* Light, expected age wear consistent with early 20th century millinery materials

## **Measurements:**

* Length: approx. 13 inches
* Width: approx. 2 inches

## **Stylistic Notes & Use:**

A lovely piece for:

* Antique hat restoration
* Textile or millinery collections
* Display in a sewing or curiosity cabinet
* Incorporation into period-inspired design work

This is a piece that speaks softly, but with great character—an echo of a time when even the smallest adornment was made with intention and grace.

What truly sets this piece apart is its decorative horsehair overlay encircling the lower portion of the crown and brim. This embellishment is worked in an irregular, almost lace-like design, softly extending beyond the brim edge in a manner that creates movement and visual texture—an elegant nod to the lingering influence of Art Deco design.

A simple black silk satin ribbon wraps the crown and ties into a soft bow at the side, offering a refined contrast to the intricate horsehair work. The overall effect is one of understated sophistication, very much in keeping with the fashionable restraint of the era.

The horsehair braid presents in a rich black tone, now gently softened with time. Subtle warm undertones from the natural fibers beneath have begun to emerge, particularly along the brim and raised areas, lending depth and highlighting the intricate woven construction. This quiet variation is consistent with age and adds to the hat’s authentic character.

The interior silk lining, having deteriorated over time, has been carefully removed. The interior construction remains visible, revealing the beautifully concentric stitching typical of period millinery.
**Measurements:**
* Interior circumference: 22 inches
* Height: 4 inches
* Brim width: approximately 2 inches (with irregular decorative edge)

**Condition:**
This hat shows honest age and wear consistent with its history.
* Interior silk lining has been removed due to deterioration
* A small break (approx. 1 inch) at the edge of the brim
* A minor break near the crown
Both imperfections are discreet and visually softened by the irregular horsehair overlay, and do not detract significantly from display or light wear.

### **Historical & Collector’s Note**

Cloche hats rose to prominence during the 1920s, closely associated with the modern woman of the Jazz Age. Materials such as horsehair braid allowed milliners to create lightweight yet structured forms, often enhanced with textural overlays and subtle trims rather than elaborate ornamentation. This example reflects the transition into the early 1930s, where decoration became more textural and integrated into the form itself.

**Condition:**
This hat shows honest age and wear consistent with its history.

* Interior silk lining has been removed due to deterioration
* A small break (approx. 1 inch) at the edge of the brim
* A minor break near the crown
Both imperfections are discreet and visually softened by the irregular horsehair overlay, and do not detract significantly from display or light wear.

The crown and inside lining are made of a blue (more of a slate blue) faille fabric, with the brim in an artificial horsehair braid. The hat is accented with a fuzzy short golden rod yellow feather. Small decorative fabric flowers embellishes the feather.

The hat is a bucket style, with a narrow brim measuring 1-1/2″ to 2-1/2″ wide. The brim is upswept at the back. As mentioned, the inside crown and underside of the brim are lined in the faille fabric.

Measurement: Height of the crown is 4-1/2″ tall. Diameter across the hat (including brim) is 11-1/2″. Length from back to front (including brim) is 13-1/2″ front to back. Circumference around the inside of crown is 22″.

Condition is very nice. You may find a couple tiny spots but the hat is very nice. Appears not to have been worn much at all.

Blue rose buds clusters on a long stem. The flower portion is 5″ in length with the stem adding another 5″ so 10″ overall. This one would be very suitable for millinery hat making or redecorating a hat.

Another tag is also attached which reads “Silk Rose Spray” . Definitely has a silky look but fabric looks more as if its a rayon to me. Just an observation so you be the judge.

Condition is good.

Size of the flower is 3-1/2″ in diameter. It consist of three layers of petals. Length, including the long stem is 6-1/2″ in length.

Color is rather a white beige.

Condition: Does have some age spotting on a couple petals but because of the color, blends in. More noticeably on the back side.