Casque brooch from West-Friesland

Originally intended to keep the bonnet in place, the ear iron evolved into an elegant fashion accessory. This early West Frisian example with striking “books” is rare, because many older ear irons were later melted down and adapted to the fashion of the time.

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This West-Frisian casque brooch is a well-preserved, early specimen with large 'books', as the rectangular ornaments on either side are called. As casque brooches were subject to fashion, early specimens are rare. Consequent to changes in fashion, most of them were melted down and replaced by more 'fashionable' ones. Casque brooches are common in many traditional regional costumes. The lace casques of the women were attached to them with casque pins.

As part of their traditional dress, women wore a lace bonnet in combination with an ear iron. Originally, the ear iron was a simple clip to keep the bonnet firmly on the head. But over time, it changed into an elegant and costly accessory, often made of silver or gold-plated metal.

The shape followed fashion and in some regions became increasingly wider and more richly decorated. Thus, the ear iron evolved from a practical aid to a visible sign of taste and status.

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