This one is spectacular, and ready to wear or display. This fabulous old top hat hasn't any holes, no rips, could be worn today. It is the collapsable form, so you need to be sure it's got an hour or two for any very minor folding dents to smooth out (which they do). The box has really protected it well. French maker, I've included the gold embossed cachet inside and the box's lid for your review and research. I'm dating it c.1860-90. The hat's interior has an oval circumference of 22", with some give to that. The interior silk lining is heavy moire as you can see, and is also in excellent form. We've never had a nicer one, not one that so tempts me to wear it. Isn't it gorgeous! Superb for a gentleman's closet decor! Or shop - say a cigar shop, haberdashery, clothing boutique.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type, this one is one you'll wear with your tux and tails, or fitting for you ladies who do dressage, as well. The silk is remarkably fine, inside and outside. It would seen it was seldom, if ever, used. No odor, nothing. Very very slight indentations in the silk once you pop it up, but from being folded, they flatten themselves out in a short time. Very very light age showing around that tight crease of the top of the hat, but only if you look super-closely. Brim is excellent, interior is excellent. The original old box with its carrying handle is nearly complete, but misses a short stretch of the side of the lid (see images). Ties closed just fine and can be carried by the handle. Display or wear - you decide. Just in from Paris.
