Vintage 1950s Bes-Ben Hat — Black Wool, Gold Feather Panels & Veil

Book-documented piece: This hat is featured on p. 259 of "Bes-Ben: Chicago's Mad Hatter," the definitive reference book on the brand, including a photograph of this very hat. More at besbenmadhatter.com

A rare, head-hugging black wool hat with gold hammered, feather-shaped panels framing the crown — larger panels at the front tapering to smaller ones sewn horizontally at the rear. A black veil covers the front. Striking, sculptural, and completely one of a kind — quintessential Bes-Ben.

Label: Bes-Ben, Made in Chicago
Era: 1950s
Condition: Very good. One tiny green stain on one of the gold feathers, as shown in photos. Otherwise very clean. The veil is fully intact — exceptional for its age.

Bes-Ben (Benjamin Green, Chicago) was one of the most celebrated and eccentric American milliners of the 20th century, known for wildly inventive one-of-a-kind designs. His hats are actively collected and rarely come up for sale in this condition.