Case

The top hat box was made by Max Peickert's hat factory, founded in 1895, whose headquarters were located at Königs Thor 0 Street (currently Plac Hołdu Pruskiego 9), opposite the Concert House. The top hat is one of the many variants of a hat, traditionally made of black or sometimes grey silk, popular and fashionable in Western Europe in the late 18th century. According to legend, it was revealed on 15 January 1797, when a London hatter named John Hetherington strolled through the streets wearing one, causing dismay among passersby. He received a fine of 50 pounds for causing a disturbance. In the 19th century, the top hat was the most popular model among all hats, among men and women alike. Its decline in popularity as everyday headwear began at the beginning of the 20th century, with the popularity of bowler hats and other, less formal hat models. These days, the top hat is worn only on special occasions and with exceptionally refined outfits.

Anna Lew-Machniak