Lega Bwami Hat

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Mid-20th century

Fiber, buttons, beads, elephant tail hair

Crowned with the tail hair of an elephant, this hat would have been worn by initiates to Kindi, the highest level of Bwami, which is a hierarchical association that serves as the political, social, economic, religious, and moral authority of Lega society. At the close of initiation, a new member would be presented with emblems of rank, including hats. The elephant tail, symbolizing the strength of the animal, imparts power upon the wearer.