Richs Department Store Appraisal

Vintage Fur Hat in 'Marché' Box from Rich's

The item appears to be a vintage fur hat, likely a 'Coralline fur hat' as suggested by the context, partially visible in the upper right quadrant of the image. The fur is a warm, reddish-brown or auburn color with natural variations in shade, suggesting genuine animal fur, possibly mink or similar. The fur pieces are arranged in a distinctive pattern, appearing to be swirled or pieced together in concentric patterns, indicative of a specific furrier technique for hats or collars designed to showcase the fur's natural luster and texture. Individual hairs are relatively short and dense, with a soft, plush appearance. There are no immediately obvious signs of severe damage such as tears or bald spots, but the fur's overall condition and luster would require closer inspection. The hat is presented alongside an octagonal, light brown cardboard box with visible speckling and some staining, suggesting age and prior use. The box features prominent text: 'Marché' in an elegant, cursive script on one panel, and 'RICH'S SOUTHERN INSTITUTION SINCE 1867' in a more blocky, sans-serif font on an adjacent panel. Rich's was a renowned department store based in Atlanta, Georgia, which operated from 1867 to 1991. The style of the box, particularly the typography and the reference to 'Marché' (which could indicate a specific line or department within Rich's), strongly suggests a mid-20th century origin, likely between the 1940s and 1970s. The box shows signs of wear, including possible water spots or age-related discoloration, contributing to its vintage aesthetic. The craftsmanship of the fur hat appears to be of good quality, with the fur pieces expertly sewn together to create a cohesive and stylish form. The hat itself is not fully visible, so specific construction details like lining or internal structure cannot be fully assessed, but the visible fur work points to a professionally made accessory.