Every element of this chieftain’s crown - from its beautiful beadwork to its overall form - communicates a sense of power, status, and prestige.
This head adornment displays the distinctive stylistic features of misango mapende hats worn by Pende and Yaka chiefs. Two knob-like extensions, adorned with bands of white, red, yellow and blue beads, are located between the two sweeping ‘horns’ – and are echoed by the smaller beaded extensions that decorate the crown’s finial.
The surface of the hat has been beautifully and intricately embellished with beads of brightly coloured geometric patterns in which triangular-shaped designs radiate down from the central finial.
H (Incl. Stand): 30cm
Width: 44cm
Estimated Period: 1940's - 1950's
Ex Private Collection, Belgium
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