Additional Information: An elaborate, handwoven Kuba Helmet.  The hat is heavily embroidered with cowrie shells and glass trade beads in colorful patterns. The composition of the cowrie shells follows the BaKuba favored style of decorative art.  The front panel is a smiling face with geometric patterns typical of Kuba art. Kuba hats are worn by the Kings, his dignitaries, and by titled women. These headdresses are insignia of status and social rank.They also intend to demonstrate royal health and power. Within Kuba culture, cowrie shells and beads are associated to the wealth and power of the kingship. See  similar example in  Patricia Darish and David Binkley, " Headdresses and titleholding Among the Kuba",  in CROWNING ACHIEVEMENTS (Arnoldi & Kreamer eds.), fig. 9.16, p. 168 For more information see Joseph, Cornet, Art Royal Kuba, 1982, Edizioni Sipiel: Milano; Mack's EMIL TORDAY AND THE ART OF THE CONGO 1900-1909.; Patricia Darish and David Binkley, " Headdresses and titleholding Among the Kuba", pp. 159-169 in CROWNING ACHIEVEMENTS (Arnoldi & Kreamer eds.). For a superb article on Kuba royal dress, with a number of examples, see Joseph Cornet's article in the CD ART AND LIFE IN AFRICA . (I have copies for sale.)

• Type of Object: Helmet or Headdress
• Materials: Cowrie shells, Beads, Cotton Cloth, horse hair, leather, wood
• Country of Origin: Democractic Republic of Congo
• Dimensions: Height: 16.5 InchesWidth: 11 InchesDepth: 9 Inches
• People: Kuba

Type of Object: Helmet or HeaddressAfrica Direct