This impressively-sized head adornment, surmounted by a pair of large sweeping animal horns, was worn by Konkomba male musicians, traditional hunters and warriors in festivals associated with hunting and war during ceremonial dances.
The shell of the ceremonial head adornment is embroidered with cowries, a prestige material symbolising wealth and prosperity. This is a particularly large and impressive example of this type of head adornment. Attached to the head adornment is a decorative attachment, made from leather and fabric.
Estimated Period: Mid-20th Century
Reference
M.J. Arnoldi & C.M. Kreamer (1995) Crowning Achievements: African Arts of Dressing the Head, p.23
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