• Woman wearing a black lace dress with a decorative headpiece against a white wall.
  • Woman wearing a black Victorian-style outfit with a floral headpiece in a room with a window and framed picture.
  • Woman in a black outfit standing in a room with a bookshelf.
  • Woman in a black and pink dress standing in an art gallery with framed pictures on the wall.
  • Person in a black outfit with lace details and a decorative headpiece on a white background
  • Woman wearing a black fur-like garment with a lace-up front, standing in a room with a window.
  • Black ruffled cape on a mannequin with a decorative wall and plant in the background
  • Black ruffled garment on a mannequin against a white wall with decorative elements.
  • Close-up of a black ruffled garment with a blurred background
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sacredgardenvintage

Museum Quality: Astonishing, Antique Victorian 1890’s, Silk Velvet Jet Black Mourning Cape with Tiers of Silk Mesh Ruffles and Hand-Beading All Over - Historical Piece

Museum Quality: Astonishing, Antique Victorian 1890’s, Silk Velvet Jet Black Mourning Cape with Tiers of Silk Mesh Ruffles and Hand-Beading All Over - Historical Piece

$725.00 USD
$725.00 USD
Sale Sold out
Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

An extraordinary and exceptionally rare Victorian mourning cape dating to the 1890s, preserved in remarkable condition for its age. This museum-quality piece is a true survivor from the late 19th century and a once-in-a-lifetime find. Designed by: M. J. Steinburg Hat and Fur Co, St. Louis. A rare and significant detail that remains intact on the interior and is still fully legible—an exceptional feature that greatly enhances its historical and collectible value.

The cape is masterfully constructed with multiple cascading layers of delicate frilled silk mesh and rich silk velvet, each tier adorned with intricate beading and lined in silk ribbon in a midnight hue that adds depth, texture, and subtle movement. The high neckline’s exquisite architecture bodes seven petal shaped cut outs made from silk velvet, topped with seven striking three-dimensional floral appliqués that frame the collar for dramatic elegance. Original, functional, and perfectly preserved metal hook closures run down the center front, completing the authentic Victorian silhouette. Fully lined in silk taffeta fabric without breakage - something I have never seen before on a mourning cape from the 1890's. 

This jaw dropper exemplifies the refined craftsmanship and solemn beauty associated with Victorian mourning attire. Pieces of this caliber, condition, and completeness are exceedingly scarce—truly rare as hen’s teeth. A one-of-one artifact suitable for collectors, museums, archivists, or the most discerning lover of antique fashion.

Seen on XS unpinned. Best suitable for an XS or S, but can accommodate other sizes. Please refer to measurements to ensure proper fit.

Measurements: 

Shoulder: 15”
Neck opening diameter: 5”
Bottom hemline extended width: 30”
Length: 14.5”

Condition:

Excellent antique condition. I’ve never come across a mourning cape in such wearable condition despite being 130 years of age. VERY light fading on the ties in front and that’s IT regarding visible imperfections. No antique smell, no holes in the mesh, and it’s not flimsy at all. There is so much life left in this garment, it is truly remarkable. Price reflects condition and rarity. 

In person appointments are available, just contact the shop. Studio location is in Los Angeles, CA. 

Detailed photos of the garment are taken for my records prior to shipping. 

Shipping and returns info found in the section below:

Shipping & Returns

All sales are final. No returns or refunds. 

Each treasure is hand selected, thoughtfully curated, a rare and beautiful unique piece of the past. I offer detailed descriptions, measurements, materials, and photographs that accurately display the condition of every offering. My team and I work hard to restore and sometimes re-make garments back to a condition of excellence and longevity. I do my best to disclose any and all clear or visible blemishes. However, due to the true nature of vintage and antique listings, there might be subtle signs of wear, consistent with age. Here at Sacred Garden Vintage, we believe imperfect characteristics carry an inherent charm, and display a non replicable historical imprint. 

When making a purchase, you are agreeing to these return and refund policies. If you have any questions regarding any piece, send an email to Sacredgardenvintage@gmail.com, or, use the contact form to reach out with your inquiry before you complete your purchase. 

Shipping:
Items will be shipped out between 2-3 business days of making your purchase. If you need me to ship out the product the next day, please email me or reach out via the contact form. 

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