In the 1860s, ladies’ outerwear was restricted to wraps, shawls, capes and easy fitting garments to accommodate wide crinoline skirts. This heavy black wool broadcloth cape with tab toggle closures is representative of a period cloak.

The hood is a fixed-in-place burnoose (loose) style, with a decorative faille (ribbed) silver and bronze striped lining. The chest tab closure and a mother of pearl button help keep the cloak closed.