Antique French Canotier (Boater) Straw Hat – Belle Époque (ca. 1900–1920)

An elegant antique canotier (boater hat) from the early 20th century, produced in France. This classic straw hat is a fine example of Belle Époque / Edwardian summer fashion and exudes timeless French charm.

The hat is made of finely braided natural straw and features the characteristic canotier shape: a straight, flat crown with a wide, flat brim. The finish is refined and well executed, featuring a cream-colored silk ribbon, partly hand-stitched and finished with a classic bow.

Inside, the hat retains its original maker’s label:

Phelbon – Mirebeau – Vienne (France)

In addition, the initials “J B” are stamped inside, along with a handwritten notation, indicating custom work or a private commission.

Origin & Dating

• Origin: France, Vienne region

• Period: ca. 1900–1920

Canotiers such as this were worn for summer outings, boating excursions, and formal occasions, and are now highly appreciated as decorative objects or collectors’ pieces.

Materials & Technique

• Braided natural straw

• Silk hat ribbon

• Leather sweatband

• Hand-finished craftsmanship

Condition

Fair to good, consistent with age:

• Straw structure intact, with light age-related discoloration

• Silk ribbon showing clear wear, fraying, and older repair traces

• Interior complete with original label

• No structural breaks or deformation

The wear to the ribbon has a slight impact on value, but it strongly emphasizes the authenticity and age of the hat.

About House of History

At House of History, we are passionate about discovering and curating vintage and unique items for history lovers like you. We believe that a tangible piece of history brings the past to life—and that is where our passion lies. Our dedication is reflected in our annual visits to numerous markets, vintage shops, and auctions, both nationally and internationally, in search of that one special piece. Whether you are looking to expand your collection or add an extra touch of character to your interior, we strive to find the perfect item for you. Our selection is based on careful curation, love, and craftsmanship. Do you have a specific question? Let us know—we are happy to help. Please feel free to contact us with any questions, comments, or concerns. We are always here for you.

Pricing and Shipping

At House of History, our prices always include shipping costs. We recommend keeping this in mind when comparing prices. All shipments are sent with track & trace for your peace of mind. Orders are dispatched within 1–2 business days. We use only reputable shipping companies and provide tracking for all shipments. Items valued over €200.00 are always shipped insured. Our products are professionally and carefully packed, and we have extensive experience with international shipping.

Notes

House of History specializes in vintage items, which means our products may show signs of use. We recommend carefully reviewing the accompanying photos and videos before making a purchase. If you have questions about a product or would like additional photos, videos, or descriptions, please do not hesitate to contact us—we are always happy to assist. We prefer to preserve the original condition of our items. Some customers prefer a polished or restored appearance, while others appreciate a time-worn look (patina). For this reason, most of our items are offered unpolished and unrestored.