Home Objects Black lace shawl owned by George Eliot

Black lace shawl owned by George Eliot

Black lace head shawl displayed on a glass mannequin. It covers the back of the head and has two long pieces on each side. Side view of a black lace shawl. It covers the back of the head and has two long pieces on each side.
Date
around 1850s
Collection
Themes

Cite this page

  • Description
  • Comments

This black lace shawl or mantilla was owned by George Eliot. It is believed to date from around the 1850s when she was a published author. It indicates her desire to keep up with the fashion of the day but also shows her affluence at this point in her life.

In his memoirs Henry James recalled visiting George Eliot’s home and seeing her wearing a black lace mantilla.

Explore the collection

View the collection