Kuba Woman’s Hat (Mpaan)

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Mid-20th century

Raffia, beads, cowrie shells

The glass beads and cowrie shells on the woman’s Mpaan signify her wealth and status. Part of the regalia of a high-titled woman, the hat fills an important role at the end of her life as part of her funerary display, where it serves as a recognition of her life’s achievements.