Antique French Canotier Straw Boater Hat – Maison Masson, ca. 1895–1915

Authentic French canotier (boater) straw hat from the Belle Époque, produced around 1895–1915. This classic men’s hat is handwoven from natural straw and fitted with its original black grosgrain silk ribbon, finished with a pleated bow at the back.

Inside, the hat bears a clear maker’s stamp from Chapellerie Parisienne – Maison Masson (Papineau), with an additional address Place Carnot, Loudun (Vienne). Maison Masson was a regional French hat maker and retailer with Parisian connections, active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

During this period, the canotier was a popular fashion accessory among the bourgeoisie and upper middle class, worn during summer leisure activities such as strolling, boating, and social events.

Details

• Origin: France

• Date: ca. 1895–1915 (Belle Époque / early Edwardian period)

• Material: Handwoven natural straw

• Finish: Original black silk ribbon, leather sweatband

• Interior: Cork/wood-fiber type inner lining with printed maker’s stamp

• Shape: Flat crown with a wide, flat brim

Condition

• Overall condition: Fair to good, consistent with age

• Straw structure firm and retaining its shape

• Original ribbon present, with visible wear and light fraying

• Interior shows signs of use and discoloration

• No breaks or structural damage

The visible wear is appropriate for the age of the piece, does not affect wearability or presentation, and enhances its authenticity. Restoration has been deliberately avoided.

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 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.