Lega Bwami Hat Horns and Shells Congo African Art
AvailabilityIn stock
SKU
121820
Special Price
$150.00
Regular Price
$272.00
US Shipping
$13.98
| Brand | Unbranded |
|---|---|
| Title | Lega Bwami Hat Horns and Shells Congo African Art |
| Type of Object | Ceremonial Hat |
| Country of Origin | Democratic Republic of Congo |
| People | Lega |
| Materials | Vegetal fibers, shells, horns |
| Approximate Age | 20th century |
| Height (in) | 6 |
| Width (in) | 6 |
| Overall Condition | Fair. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners. Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. |
| Damage/Repair | Chips and scratches on mussel shells, cut strings in one place around the base of the hat |
Additional Information: This is a traditional conical Lega hat. The frame in made of vegetal fibres using basketry techniques. The surface is decorated with mussel shells. A horn is placed on the top of the hat.
Lega hats such as this reveal status among the Bwami secret society which governs most of Lega life. Animals are important in Bwami symbolism, and elephant, pangolin, and hornbill all represent different levels of Bwami. For a fascinating article with numerous examples, see Elizabeth Cameron's article on Lega Hats in Arnoldi and Kreamer's CROWNING ACHIEVEMENTS-AFRICAN ARTS OF DRESSING THE HEAD
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