Jewish Hat

By Crusader1307

The Jewish Hat (sometimes referred to as a Horned Skull Cap), was a type of Headwear worn exclusively by The Jewish People, during The Middle Ages. The practice was actually Law in some Kingdoms, punishable by Fine or Imprisonment if one was found not wearing one. Normally White or Yellow on color, some Hats were even embellished by their Wearers. Seen around the 11th Century in Europe and The Middle East, most Jews were segregated into Districts and Wards, known as “Ghettos”. The term has a slightly different meaning than today, in that these Wards were exclusively occupied by only one Race or ethic background. While in his or her “Ghetto”, the wearing of The Hat was not required. However, when outside of these Quarters, they had to be worn. Rough hewn versions were made and worn and these were linked to the Common Class of Laborers in Ancient Greece. The heavy Linen Hat featured a small brim, with a long, twisted extension protruding from the Crown. The Laws governing their wear derived from The Christian Church, who viewed Jews with disdain and contempt. When most “Jewish” Subjects were depicted in Medieval Art, they were identified by their Jewish Hat. By the 16th Century, it had gone out of fashion as a way of identification.