Hat
Early-mid 20th century
Yoruba Odo-Ona Ilorin, Nigeria Coastal West Africa
Nigeria
The Yoruba appreciate the color variations and sparkling surfaces of beads, as well as the way that they can be combined into dazzling patterns. Beads contain àse (animating force) and become further imbued with it when worn. Today titled Yoruba men wear beaded regalia as an expression of power, status, and divine sanction. This beaded cap features an interlaced motif with strong royal associations. [See also 2009.580].
Glass beads, cloth, and string