Miao Silver Ceremonial Hat

Horns that twist like smoke, over a dome of silver flowers.

This Miao silver ceremonial hat comes from southeastern Guizhou Province, China, and dates to the early to mid 20th century. It is repousse silver, with multiple horns and a silver chin strap. Miao women wear silver headdresses like this at festivals and important family occasions as a display of family wealth, with forms that change by region. Curving horns, each with a flared end, rise around a small tiered spire at the top. Below, embossed blossoms fill the dome and a row of framed panels. A loop of fine chain hangs from the rim. Eight inches high and 10.5 in diameter.

The chin strap is a sensible precaution.