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Bride's Hat (Isicholo)

Arts of Africa

CULTURE Zulu
MEDIUM Fiber, pigment, beads, metal, cloth
DATES early to mid-20th century
DIMENSIONS 6 1/2 x 12 5/8 in. (16.5 x 32 cm)
COLLECTIONS Arts of Africa
ACCESSION NUMBER 2011.31.2
CREDIT LINE Gift in honor of William C. Siegmann in recognition of his contributions to the study and understanding of African Arts
CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION Hat composed of a woven basketry frame, with fibers woven onto the outer surface. Fibers appear to have been dyed upon completion of the form, as a band of white fibers on back of hat and above cloth headpiece have not taken ochre pigment as elsewhere. A beaded band, with white, red, blue and black beads and metal studs has been affixed to the top of the hat. A woven cloth element, with alternating black/white rectangles, serves to secure the hat to head. A small tuft of black dyed fibers projects from the lower rear of hat. Condition: good.
MUSEUM LOCATION This item is not on view
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