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SAM'S collection

Kupash hat with circular brass knob

Date20th century
Maker Kuba
Label TextHats indicate rank in the Kuba kingdom where rivalries for power led to a competitive passion for art. Dyaash, the Kuba concept of ideal character, matches personal initiative with respect for hierarchy. Four titleholders once wore this set of hats and would use them to distinguish their roles. Titles could be as specifically designated as the man who picks up obstacles in the king’s path, the keeper of the records, or the herald of the day.
Object number2001.314
Credit LineGift of the Christensen Fund
Dimensions5 x 6 1/2 in. (12.7 x 16.5 cm)
MediumRaffia, cowrie shells, beads, brass, camwood
Kuba
Object number: 2001.313
Congolese
20th century
Object number: 2001.287
Congolese
20th century
Object number: 2001.307
Kuba
Object number: 2001.309
Kuba
20th century
Object number: 2001.310
Kuba
Object number: 2001.312
Kuba
Object number: 2001.315
Kuba
Object number: 2001.383.1
Kuba
Object number: 2001.383.2
Kuba
Object number: 2001.383.3
Kuba
Object number: 2001.383.4
Kuba
Object number: 2001.383.5