Mudpack Coiffure (Emedot)
Karamojong
1 of 2
Object Label
The Karamojong and other related peoples of western Kenya and Uganda are primarily nomadic cattle keepers. The focus of their visual art is body ornamentation, including elaborate mudpack coiffures worn by men. The hairstyle takes the form of a large bun of hair at the back of the head and an intricately designed area of colored clay above the forehead. The addition of rare, valuable ostrich feathers to the coiffure indicates the individual’s status as an elder or warrior.
Caption
Karamojong. Mudpack Coiffure (Emedot), 20th century. Organic material, pigment, human hair, plastic beads, ostrich feathers, chicken feathers, 12 1/2 x 12 1/2 x 19 3/4 in. (31.8 x 31.8 x 50.1 cm). Brooklyn Museum, John W. James Fund, 1996.112.2. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Culture
Title
Mudpack Coiffure (Emedot)
Date
20th century
Geography
Place made: Kenya
Medium
Organic material, pigment, human hair, plastic beads, ostrich feathers, chicken feathers
Classification
Dimensions
12 1/2 x 12 1/2 x 19 3/4 in. (31.8 x 31.8 x 50.1 cm)
Credit Line
John W. James Fund
Accession Number
1996.112.2
Have information?
Have information about an artwork? Contact us at