Edwardian Gentleman’s Detachable Collar Box with Original Arrow Collars | Circa 1900–1920
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: England / United States
Material: Embossed celluloid or early molded plastic case with metal hardware; starched linen detachable collars
Period: Early 20th Century, circa 1900–1920
Description
This elegant Edwardian collar box preserves a fascinating piece of early 20th-century gentleman’s dress culture. The cream-colored molded case is richly decorated in relief with scrolling floral ornament and a classical female portrait medallion framed by roses and foliage. A decorative metal clasp opens to reveal a silk-lined interior containing a group of detachable starched linen collars.
Inside the box are seven detachable collars bearing period manufacturer marks including Arrow Brand and Arrow-De Luxe by Cluett, Peabody & Co., one of the most prominent American shirtmakers of the era. Additional markings indicate production in England by Tooke Bros. Limited, demonstrating the international manufacture and distribution of detachable collar fashion during the height of Edwardian formal dress.
Detachable collars were a hallmark of men’s attire from the late Victorian period through the early decades of the 20th century. They allowed gentlemen to replace only the collar portion of a shirt after laundering, maintaining a crisp appearance while extending the life of the garment. Collar boxes such as this were used to store and transport the carefully starched collars, protecting them from damage.
The ornate molded decoration and fitted silk interior give the piece the appearance of a refined gentleman’s accessory case, combining practicality with decorative Victorian-Edwardian design.
Features
- Embossed decorative collar box with classical portrait and floral ornament
- Original detachable linen collars preserved inside the case
- Interior lined in pleated silk with fitted collar compartment
- Period marks including Arrow Brand, Arrow-De Luxe, and Tooke Bros. Ltd.
- Decorative metal clasp and hinges
- A distinctive example of Edwardian gentleman’s clothing accessories
Cultural Significance
Detachable collars were a defining element of men’s fashion from the late 19th century into the early 20th century. Companies such as Cluett, Peabody & Co. popularized the Arrow brand collar, which became one of the most recognizable clothing products of its time. The famous “Arrow Collar Man” advertising campaign helped establish the detachable collar as a symbol of refinement, professionalism, and modern masculinity.
Collar boxes served both a functional and aesthetic purpose, protecting the fragile starched collars while presenting them in a fashionable manner suitable for travel or storage.
Condition
Good antique condition overall. The box shows minor age-related wear with some cracking and loss along one rear corner and edge, consistent with age and material. Interior silk lining remains intact with light wear. The collars show expected age toning and handling wear.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 5.5 in
Width: 6.5 in
Length: 6.5 in
Age (Approximate)
105–125 years old
Learn More
Examine the rise and decline of detachable collars in this article by the Textile Research Centre
Browse our curated Collection of 20th Century Artifacts
Descripción
Historical Context & Origin
Region: England / United States
Material: Embossed celluloid or early molded plastic case with metal hardware; starched linen detachable collars
Period: Early 20th Century, circa 1900–1920
Description
This elegant Edwardian collar box preserves a fascinating piece of early 20th-century gentleman’s dress culture. The cream-colored molded case is richly decorated in relief with scrolling floral ornament and a classical female portrait medallion framed by roses and foliage. A decorative metal clasp opens to reveal a silk-lined interior containing a group of detachable starched linen collars.
Inside the box are seven detachable collars bearing period manufacturer marks including Arrow Brand and Arrow-De Luxe by Cluett, Peabody & Co., one of the most prominent American shirtmakers of the era. Additional markings indicate production in England by Tooke Bros. Limited, demonstrating the international manufacture and distribution of detachable collar fashion during the height of Edwardian formal dress.
Detachable collars were a hallmark of men’s attire from the late Victorian period through the early decades of the 20th century. They allowed gentlemen to replace only the collar portion of a shirt after laundering, maintaining a crisp appearance while extending the life of the garment. Collar boxes such as this were used to store and transport the carefully starched collars, protecting them from damage.
The ornate molded decoration and fitted silk interior give the piece the appearance of a refined gentleman’s accessory case, combining practicality with decorative Victorian-Edwardian design.
Features
- Embossed decorative collar box with classical portrait and floral ornament
- Original detachable linen collars preserved inside the case
- Interior lined in pleated silk with fitted collar compartment
- Period marks including Arrow Brand, Arrow-De Luxe, and Tooke Bros. Ltd.
- Decorative metal clasp and hinges
- A distinctive example of Edwardian gentleman’s clothing accessories
Cultural Significance
Detachable collars were a defining element of men’s fashion from the late 19th century into the early 20th century. Companies such as Cluett, Peabody & Co. popularized the Arrow brand collar, which became one of the most recognizable clothing products of its time. The famous “Arrow Collar Man” advertising campaign helped establish the detachable collar as a symbol of refinement, professionalism, and modern masculinity.
Collar boxes served both a functional and aesthetic purpose, protecting the fragile starched collars while presenting them in a fashionable manner suitable for travel or storage.
Condition
Good antique condition overall. The box shows minor age-related wear with some cracking and loss along one rear corner and edge, consistent with age and material. Interior silk lining remains intact with light wear. The collars show expected age toning and handling wear.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 5.5 in
Width: 6.5 in
Length: 6.5 in
Age (Approximate)
105–125 years old
Learn More
Examine the rise and decline of detachable collars in this article by the Textile Research Centre
Browse our curated Collection of 20th Century Artifacts
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