Man's nightcap. English; first quarter 17th century. Linen embroidered with silver-gilt and silver thread, and silk in detached buttonhole, plaited braid, satin, chain and speckling stitches with couched work, knots and spangles. Trimmed with silver-gilt bobbin lace. []M, linen, 1600-1624, English; Coloured silks, silver-gilt and silver threadThis nightcap is an example of informal headwear for a wealthy man. Headwear was an significant part of dress in the 17th century, for reasons of both fashion and warmth, and although nightcaps were only worn around the home, they could be, like this example, very luxurious. Its rich decoration includes metal spangles (the 17th century term for sequins), silver thread embroidery and silver-gilt bobbin lace which would have reflected the light of candles and fire-places.
The nightcap's pattern of flowers, strawberries, and leaves is typical of the early 17th century. Many embroidery designs were inspired by the botanical picture books popular at the time. By the 1620s patterns specifically for embroidery were being published, often with their designs specially adapted for the shape of the nightcap.A man's nightcap with floral designs.