Woman’s Bonnet (Cepiec)

Slovakia (Spis region)

Mid-20th century

Cotton, wool

Although the styles and designs varied from one region to another, part of a bride’s dowry traditionally included a dozen caps. Once married, a woman would wear her head capped on a daily basis, and the design of the cap could indicate whether she was a newlywed, nursing, or a widow. Because a woman’s hair was considered magical and enticing, she would gather up her hair in a bun or braids, tucking it inside the head covering.