High Straw Hat c. 1936

Ernest A. Towers Jr. created this watercolor painting of a High Straw Hat, which is undated. The image may seem simple, yet it speaks volumes about the social landscape of its time, likely late 19th or early 20th century America. The high straw hat, or boater, was more than just headwear; it was a symbol of the middle and upper classes, of leisure and respectability. Consider the cultural significance of fashion during this period. Clothing was a clear marker of social status, and accessories like hats were crucial in communicating one's position. This image subtly comments on the rigid social structures of the time. Was Towers critiquing this class consciousness, or perhaps celebrating it? Understanding art like this requires historical context. Research into fashion trends, social etiquette, and even economic factors can shed light on the painting's deeper meanings. This work reminds us that art is always embedded in its own time and place.