H x W x D: 18 x 23.5 x 19.5 cm (7 1/16 x 9 1/4 x 7 11/16 in.)
Type:
Textile and Fiber Arts
Geography:
Kenya
Date:
Mid-20th century
Label Text:
This hat, proudly displaying the ostrich feathers and coiled metal associated with one's position, combines the traditional mudpack hairstyle of an initiated man with the modern versatility of a hat. Among Kenya's pastoral peoples, a man's well-groomed hair is a sign of strength, courage and masculinity.
TxtStyles: Fashioning Identity, National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C., June 11-December 7, 2008
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