This 1920s hooded robe, made of cotton and hand-embroidered with a skull and bones, belonged to the Order of the Odd Fellows, one of the many mutual-aid and fraternal organizations that flourished across the United States alongside groups such as the Knights of Pythias or the Shriners.
The Odd Fellows developed an elaborate system of initiations and allegorical pageantry, with rituals whose sophistication sometimes approached that of full theatrical performances. Their rich material culture included a lot of costumes: embroidered robes and capes, aprons, masks—some complete with facial hair— badges and other pieces of regalia. Colors and symbols identified particular degrees and offices, while costumes helped distinguish the roles assumed by participants during the ritual. Within Odd Fellowship, the skull was not merely decorative: it served as a memento mori, reminding members of death, the fundamental equality of all human beings, and their obligations toward one another. At their most deliciously macabre, these ceremonies possessed something of the Grand Guignol—a theater of mortality staged in the service of initiation.
The cloak is made of cotton, features snap closures, and falls to floor length. It is approximately a medium size. Please note that it shows some damage and tearing consistent with age.
Manufacturer: The C. E. Ward Co., Regalia, Costumes and Supplies, New London, Ohio.
This collectible garment is sold as is.
Please note that all clothing sales are final. We do not accept returns or exchanges, and no refunds will be issued.
This 1920s hooded robe, made of cotton and hand-embroidered with a skull and bones, belonged to the Order of the Odd Fellows, one of the many mutual-aid and fraternal organizations that flourished across the United States alongside groups such as the Knights of Pythias or the Shriners.
The Odd Fellows developed an elaborate system of initiations and allegorical pageantry, with rituals whose sophistication sometimes approached that of full theatrical performances. Their rich material culture included a lot of costumes: embroidered robes and capes, aprons, masks—some complete with facial hair— badges and other pieces of regalia. Colors and symbols identified particular degrees and offices, while costumes helped distinguish the roles assumed by participants during the ritual. Within Odd Fellowship, the skull was not merely decorative: it served as a memento mori, reminding members of death, the fundamental equality of all human beings, and their obligations toward one another. At their most deliciously macabre, these ceremonies possessed something of the Grand Guignol—a theater of mortality staged in the service of initiation.
The cloak is made of cotton, features snap closures, and falls to floor length. It is approximately a medium size. Please note that it shows some damage and tearing consistent with age.
Manufacturer: The C. E. Ward Co., Regalia, Costumes and Supplies, New London, Ohio.
This collectible garment is sold as is.
Please note that all clothing sales are final. We do not accept returns or exchanges, and no refunds will be issued.
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