Thailand
Mid-20th century
Metal, beads, coins, cotton
The Akha are one of six tribes living in the isolated mountain regions of northern Thailand, each of which has its own distinctive culture, language, and traditions. This headdress has traditionally been worn as part of a woman’s everyday attire. Variations on the structure, materials, and design of the headpiece mark the different Akha clans. The style and decorative qualities of this particular headdress identify the wearer as belonging to the Phami clan, and signify a married woman of considerable wealth.