hatstand

A hatstand (UK), hatrack (US), coat rack, coat stand, or hall tree is a device used to store hats and often coats on, and umbrellas within. A coat rack often refers to a set of hooks that are attached to a wall. Usually made of wood and standing at least tall, the self-standing variant is more often referred to as a hatstand and has a single pole, a sturdy base to prevent toppling, and an array of lengthy pegs at the top for placement of hats. A hatrack was used to decorate Victorian front halls while providing storage. Description A hatstand is a device used to store hats and often coats on, and umbrellas within. Usually made of wood and standing at least tall, they have a single pole making up most of the height, with a sturdy base to prevent toppling, and an array of lengthy pegs at the top for placement of hats. The complicated shapes of the spindles and hooks of both varieties create an interesting pattern on the wall. Name The device is known by various names including hatstand (UK), hatrack (US), coat rack, coat stand, and hall tree. Some upscale European catalogues market it as a portmanteau from the French ('carry') and ('cloak'). A coat rack often refers to a set of hooks that are attached to a wall and is mainly used to hang coats and jackets; the self-standing variant is more often referred to as a hatstand, and is mostly used to hang coats, jackets, umbrellas and hats.