Bonnet c. 1936

Curator: Here we have Bessie Forman's "Bonnet," a pencil drawing on paper dating back to around 1936. Editor: You know, it’s funny, my first thought looking at it wasn't of function, but of geometry, like a study in curves and subtle light. It's elegant, almost architectural. Curator: Precisely. As a portrait of an object rather than a person, the bonnet takes on new meaning. These meticulously rendered garments speak volumes about the role of women and domesticity in the era. Editor: Do you think Forman wanted us to contemplate… constraint? The bonnet is quite a restrictive object. Curator: Indeed, the bonnet can be seen as both protection and restriction, defining a woman's place and visibility within society. Garments were, and in many cases, remain symbolic representations of cultural norms. Editor: I can't help but wonder about the person who wore this bonnet. What was her world like? The texture is really interesting... you can see how meticulously each pleat and ribbon is rendered with subtle variations in shading. Curator: It's a quiet, unassuming piece that invites reflection on everyday life in a bygone era. I think this object portrait offers insights into the intersection of fashion, gender, and social history. Editor: I’ll never look at bonnets the same way! Curator: Well, hopefully you'll never look at any drawing, or object, the same way! Thanks for joining me.