Lega Bwami Society Hat

Long fringe falls like a head of hair, and a crescent of white buttons frames the brow.

This Bwami society hat is Lega, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, dates to the 20th century, and is hemp, rattan, cowry shell and plastic. Among the Lega, Bwami is a graded association that guides moral and social life, and hats are generally understood as markers of a member's rank within it. The domed crown is netted from twisted fiber, set with large brown shells. A horseshoe of pale disks outlines the front, with cowries at the peak. Long cords hang well below on all sides. The record also lists Republic of Congo. It is 8 inches wide, 8 deep and 16 high.

Rank, worn quietly, with an excellent fringe.