Lega Bwami Society Hat, Based

In the Bwami society, advancement was marked by objects. A hat was one of them.

Bwami was the central institution of Lega social, moral and political life, and its members advanced through graded levels, each marked by particular objects and regalia. This hat was made in the 20th century by the Lega of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The conical form, just under sixteen inches tall, is built on a woven rattan and hemp foundation densely covered in rows of white cowrie shells. A cluster of larger dark shells sits at the front, and a pale curved point rises from the crown.

A braided strap trimmed with more cowries hangs below. It stands on a custom metal stand, quietly claiming rank.