Coif, Birgitta, c. 1200-1500

Light coloured fabric coifs with wrapped ties are commonly seen on women in medieval art from the 13th to 16th centuries. There are extant examples residing in museums and private collections in Italy, France, The Low Countries and Scandinavia.

An original coif dating between the 13th and 16th centuries is in the possession of the Birgittine Convent in Uden, The Netherlands. This coif is attributed to Saint Birgitta of Sweden and is kept as a relic. The coif is made of two pieces of linen which are connected by a band of openwork embroidery.  A fabric tie forms a band on the face edge which is also embroidered.  The ties extend beyond the cap to form a loop.

Our version follows the design of the Birgitta coif.   The body is made of ivory linen, and the central seam is joined by openwork braid which mimics the double herringbone embroidery of the original.  The band and embroidery are slightly darker ivory than the linen, forming a subtle two-tone effect. The coif may be worn alone or as a foundation for a veil, hood or other headdress.

Linen, cotton and faux silk

One size fits all



$19.95

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  • Model: BSD-WHW-10
  • Shipping Weight: 0.25lbs




Current Reviews: 2

This product was added to our catalog on Saturday 02 June, 2012.