Bonnet c. 1936

Gwyneth King’s watercolor painting entitled *Bonnet* presents a humble straw bonnet embellished with a simple ribbon. It’s fascinating to consider that King was born in 1855. The very item depicted speaks to the artist's personal connection to a world defined by rigid social conventions. During the Victorian era in England, bonnets like this one were not merely fashion accessories; they symbolized modesty and respectability. They also reflect the strict social expectations placed on women, particularly within the middle and upper classes. Head coverings were, in this context, a visual marker of social standing. To truly understand the painting's meaning, one needs to consider King’s personal history, but also the broader social and cultural context in which she lived and worked. Researching fashion trends, social etiquette, and the role of women in Victorian society would greatly enhance our understanding. This piece provides a lens through which to view the artist's lived experience.