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Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
Woman's Headdress (Mpaan)
Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
© Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami. All rights reserved.

Woman's Headdress (Mpaan)

Artist/Maker (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Datemid 20th century
Mediumraffia, cotton, glass beads and cowrie shells
DimensionsOverall: 8 1/2 x 9 1/2 x 9 1/4 in. (21.6 x 24.1 x 23.5 cm)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineMuseum purchase
Terms
    Object number90.0025
    On View
    Not on view
    Collections
    DescriptionKuba artisans have long been renowned for their cultural productions, much of which was commissioned by the ruling class as status symbols. Conical headdresses, called mpaan, were created to adorn the bodies of prominent women during funerals. This mpaan has an abundance of cowrie shells a traditional form of currency in many African nations, which symbolize the patron’s wealth or noble origins. The geometric motif on the rim is traditional and appears in various forms of Kuba art from textiles to scarification. The colors of the beads may reference virtues the patron wants to be associated with: blue for high rank, green for land and growth, and white for purity.

    Description by Curatorial Intern, Xavier Lane, University of Miami Class of 2024
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