Bamileke "Juju hat" headdress, Cameroon - Lot 138

Bamileke "Juju hat" headdress, Cameroon Prestigious African headdress worn by notables, this example features a bright yellow feather trim. 42 x 42 cm Without base These impressive headdresses were worn by members of the Kuosi or Kwosi society for the elephant dance, tso. They were worn over a multicolored costume consisting of a large beaded mask with large circular ears, mbap mteng, a fabric cloth, ndop, adorned with monkey fur and a leopard belt. These dances were performed during festive ceremonies and funerals. Hats used to be made from parrot feathers, now from wild guinea fowl, whose scarcity made them expensive. The feathers are attached to cloth-covered wooden strips, placed around a circular frame consolidated by a wicker basket. Originally a society of valiant warriors, the Kosi evolved into an association of wealthy notables acting on behalf of royalty to regulate social order.