Bonnet c. 1937

Florence Earl created this watercolor titled 'Bonnet', sometime during her lifetime between 1855 and 1995. Earl’s delicate rendering of this object of feminine adornment invites us to consider the historical and social roles of women during her time. The bonnet, a common accessory, was more than mere fashion; it was a signifier of identity, subtly communicating social standing, marital status, and adherence to the restrictive cultural norms of womanhood. Notice how the bonnet, with its demure shape and soft colors, encapsulates the era's expectations of female modesty and domesticity. The ribbons and ruffles, while decorative, also represent the constraints placed upon women, confined to the realm of aesthetics and appearance. Earl’s decision to depict this item with such care prompts reflection on the silent stories and the layered identities of women, urging us to consider the tension between societal expectations and individual expression.