Hats are proclamations of rank and title in the Kuba kingdom. Rivalries within the kingdom led to a competitive passion for art that conveyed status. Dyaash, the Kuba concept of ideal character, matches personal initiative with respect for hierarchy. Titleholders-such as the man who picks up obstacles in the king's path, the keeper of records, the herald and the magistrate-all wore hats to emphasize their roles in the royal court.
Fiber and raffia
5 13/16 in. (14.73 cm)
Gift of the Christensen Fund
2001.274
Not currently on view
Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.
