Ornament

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the most recognizable and interesting aspects of Dutch costume is the ear-iron. The Frisian style of this headwear is a wide band of metal fitting around the back of the head with ornaments at the temples. The shape and style of the ornaments were indicative of their status, their husband's or son's profession, their locality, or even their religion. The ear-iron was usually worn with a lace cap which partially covered the metal. This type of gold filigree work is said to have originated in East Frisia in the 15th century when gold was first discovered in that area. The high quality and intricate designs of these examples suggest the wearer's wealth and high social status.

The Costume Institute

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Costume Institute's collection of more than thirty-three thousand objects represents seven centuries of fashionable dress and accessories for men, women, and children, from the fifteenth century to the present.

Metropolitan Museum of Art