Mourning cape 1895 - 1900

This black lace mourning cape, dating from 1895-1900, is a poignant reminder of the Victorian era’s focus on somber attire during periods of grief. Created by the prominent New York department store Abraham & Straus, the cape showcases delicate lacework and intricate fringe, likely worn by a woman in mourning. This piece, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection, embodies the visual language of Victorian mourning traditions, where elaborate black garments served as a public display of sorrow.