Capotian Hat

By Crusader1307

Iconic in appearance, The Capotian Hat was a popular form of Hatwear from the 1590s through the 17th Century. Born out of Religious “piety”, it was worn by Men (at first) of Protestant faith. Later, versions were adapted for wear by non-observers, with even a similar style for Women. Made of stiffened Felt, The Capotian featured a broad, circular Brim. The Crown was originally of medium height and flattened at the top. Often a plain and unadorned band was placed around The Crown. Traditionally, these Hats were dyed Black. No other color variants were used. This was another facet of their Protestant/Puritanism background. A common historical error with The Capotian Hat, was that it is often featured in Art, with a Brass Buckle affixed to the Front Hat Band. The Hat in fact never featured such adornments. However, by the 17th Century, the Female form of the Headwear  (which was much smaller), was decorated as such. It is thought that this “fashion addition” was common with all versions, and Painters added it as such. The Capotian Hat was made famous in America as “The Pilgrim Hat”. Commonly depicted as the Hatwear of English Separatists, who colonized Plymouth, Massachusetts – it is still an image well propagated.