Kuba Cap (Laket Mishiing)

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Late 20th century

Raffia

Among the Kuba people, hats are worn to announce one’s status as a titleholder, and are closely linked to notions of adult responsibilities and accomplishments. At a ceremony held after the completion of an initiation process, young men receive Laket Mishiings, small raffia hats, in recognition of their transformation into adults. The Lakets are secured to the head by a hat pin, another emblem of rank.