Kercher

COVERCHIEF (Kerchief, Kercher)

A veil or covering for a woman's head, and made of fine or coarse material, according to the wearer's condition or means. The coverchief was worn by women of every rank in England, both Anglo-Saxon and Norman. By the former it was known as the " heafodsraegal " or headrail. There are numerous examples of it in illuminations in the 11th and 12th centuries. It seems to have been broad enough to cover the head completely so that no hair could be. seen, and then wrapped round the neck and passed over the shoulders. One end of it is sometimes seen loose, but is more frequently represented with both ends hidden as it is in a hood, from which article of attire it is sometimes difficult to distinguish it. At various times made of silk, linen, mostly fine material, painted or white.