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Fine Early Prestige Kuba Chieftain's Cap (Laket Mishiing)
About the Item
Traditionally worn as a symbol of rank and title, this beautiful Kuba chieftain's cap (laket mishiing) is embellished with cowrie shells and rows of blue, white and black glass beads. The body of the hat has been fashioned from raffia fibre using the woven basketry technique, and displays the typical form of the Kuba 'laket' cap, with four scallop-shaped 'ears'. When worn, one of the 'ears' would have been squarely positioned at the front of the wearer's forehead.
Given to Kuba men upon completion of an initiation rite, small dome-shaped raffia hats signalled their transformation into mature members of Kuba society. As a Kuba man moved up the social ladder, his headgear would change, with male titleholders commissioning local artisans to produce splendidly decorated prestige hats to signal his rank. The accumulation of materials on a Kuba man’s hat was a reflection of his accomplishments and upward mobility.
Height Including Stand: 16.5 inches
Height Excluding Stand: 5 inches
Estimated Period: Mid-20th Century (Or Before)
Ex Private Collection, Belgium
- Dimensions:Height: 16.5 in (41.91 cm)Width: 6 in (15.24 cm)Depth: 6.5 in (16.51 cm)
- Style:Tribal (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Mid-20th Century (Or Before)
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:London, GB
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU8736237352142
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