.. flattened a bit in the front so it was less domed, and more of a pyramid by 1860. There came many versions of it that were articulated (folding), and constructed of a variety of materials, although the steel cage remained the most popular.
(Photo: late 1850’s reticulating hoop translates to the 1865 shape of Princess Helena’s day dress with the somewhat flat front and full back.. though at both timeframes both the symmetrical and the flat front versions were worn)
