Photograph taken in Leiden by A. Koorenhoff, Leiden, of a woman in Rijnland dress, ca. 1880, We are currently researching a mini-exhibition about Rijnland lace caps that were mainly worn in the region between Gouda and Katwijk-aan-Zee, including Leiden and the region around the city, in the 19th and early 20th centuries. These caps come in a variety of forms, depending on whether the wearer was going to church, was in mourning, wealthy or not (such as a farm labourer or a merchant’s wife).

In addition, we want to look at the various techniques used to decorate these caps, including bobbin lace, hand embroidered tulle (net), machine made forms and indeed the various types of designs associated with Rijnland caps.

We are also looking for examples of caps, the relevant jewellery (especially oorijzers), and for old illustrations and photographs of women wearing this type of headwear. In addition, we are looking for the stories behind the caps! Who wore them, when, why, what did the women think about these caps, why did they stop wearing them? In fact any details, small or large. If you have any information or indeed examples you are willing to donate to the TRC Leiden, please let me know at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Gillian Vogelsang, 1 August 2021