Three Bes-Ben Hats, c. 1958

This lot contains three hats.

THE FIRST
Woven straw hat with short, slightly downturned brim decorated with fruits and leaves, with net veil attached to the brim. The hat comes with a Bes-Ben hat box.
Label: Bes-Ben / Made in Chicago

Size Label: n/a

Style/Serial No.: n/a

Approximate Measurements:

Circumference: 9" (including brim)

THE SECOND
Black velvet fascinator with teardrop-shaped details, decorated with faux jadeite plaques and faux pearl beads, with net veil attached to the front. The hat comes with a Bes-Ben hat box.
Label: Bes-Ben / Made in Chicago

Size Label: n/a

Style/Serial No.: n/a

Approximate Measurements:

Circumference: 6 1/2"

THE THIRD
Pale pink felt hat with short brim at center front, a large bow at center back, and decorated with a bouquet of pink velvet baby's breath and a green net veil surrounding the brim. The hat comes with a Bes-Ben hat box.
Label: Bes-Ben / Chicago/Paris

Size Label: n/a

Style/Serial No.: n/a

Approximate Measurements:

Circumference: 7"

Condition:

THE FIRST

The overall condition is fair, structurally sound, though two fruits have detached from the hat but remain with the lot.

THE SECOND

The overall condition is good with minor losses to the velvet and evidence of pinholes.

THE THIRD

The overall condition is good with minor discoloration to the underside of the felt.

Everything is sold 'As Is’. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email [email protected] with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Timothy Long

Director, Senior Specialist, Couture & Luxury Accessories

[email protected]312.334.4222

Mr. Long has nearly 20 years of experience as a curator of fashion and decorative arts in museums including the Museum of London, the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and the Chicago History Museum. At Hindman, he works with individual clients, collectors, dealers, and museums to bring to auction collections of couture and luxury accessories. Mr. Long’s recent publications include Charles James: Designer in Detail and a chapter on the same designer in London Couture: British Luxury 1923–1975, both published by V&A Publishing.

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Three Bes-Ben Hats, c. 1958

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