Skullcap "laket mishiing" or "hat with strings" ·  D. R. Congo, Kuba · ID: 3035618

Description

fine raffia plait, four tongue-like projections with strings, fibres dyed in light and dark brown, fine netting, two small drilled holes;
the heads of novices entering the forest initiation camp are shaved, symbolically suggesting their immature status. After a period of seclusion and instruction they are presented to the community in festive dances as adult members of society. On these occasions they wear long woven raffia skirts and often such a small conical hat “laket” that designates their newly achieved adult status.

Comparing literature

Arnoldi, Mary Jo & Christine Mullen Kreamer, Crowning achievements, Los Angeles 1995, p. 164, ill. 9.7a