Hat
20th century, 1950–2000
Object PlaceDemocratic Republic of the Congo
Medium/TechniqueFiber, feathers, shells
DimensionsOverall: 11 x 21 cm (4 5/16 x 8 1/4 in.)
Credit LineGift of Geneviève McMillan in memory of Reba Stewart
Accession number2009.2734
On View
Not on viewClassificationsCostumes
DescriptionThe mode of dress for Kuba kings and titleholders is especially important. The degree of the costume's opulence is directly related to the power of its wearer. This importance extents beyond aesthetics as parts of the costume relate specifically to the wearer's title and role within the community. The feathers and white plumes would be worn on the head and belong to the king's, bwaantshy, or official state dress. The king would wear the hat and accompanying costume on important state occasions.
Provenance1980s, acquired in Cambridge, MA by Geneviève McMillan (b. 1922 - d. 2008), Cambridge; 2008, to the Geneviève McMillan and Reba Stewart Foundation, Cambridge; 2009, gift of the Geneviève McMillan and Reba Stewart Foundation to the MFA. (Accession Date: June 17, 2009)
20th century
mid to late 20th century
20th–mid 20th century
20th century
late 20th century
late 20th century
20th–mid 20th century
