In Kuba society, adult men received small raffia hats, called laket mishiing, after completing an initiation process that marked their transformation into mature members of their community. These small caps, worn on the crown of the head, were finely woven from raffia fibre into a distinctive dome-like form, with four scallop-shaped edges. A Kuba man’s laket mishiing was a symbol of his cultural identity – and also a visual reflection of his status, changing in appearance as he progressed up the social ladder. As the owner took on additional titles in society, his hat became more embellished.
This Kuba laket, which has been beautifully decorated with cowrie shells and blue, white, and pale green glass beads, is a visual signal of rank. Beads in patterns of alternating colours frame the rim of the hat, and above, rows of beads and cowrie shells adorn the surface. At the top, the laket features an elevated, cowrie shell-covered crown in a reflection of the wearer’s high status.
Estimated Period: First Half of 20th Century
Ex Private Collection, UK
Height (Including Display Stand): 33cm
Width of Cap: 16cm
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