Object Timeline

1999

  • Work on this object ended.

2017

2022

2025

  • You found it!

Ceremonial Hat

This is a Ceremonial hat. It was made by Bamileke People. It is dated 20th century and we acquired it in 2017. Its medium is basketry covered with acrylic and acetate cloths, embroidered with glass beads. It is a part of the Textiles department.

“I love the multiplicity of this, the layered, towering gestures of the beading that somehow allows you to have three to four scenarios in one object. None of the repeats are the same, and you can see how pattern is employed for drama and impact.” Duro Olowu

This object was donated by Gail Martin. It is credited Gift of Gail Martin.

Its dimensions are

H x diam.: 20.3 × 22.9 cm (8 × 9 in.)

Cite this object as

Ceremonial Hat; Made by Bamileke People; basketry covered with acrylic and acetate cloths, embroidered with glass beads; H x diam.: 20.3 × 22.9 cm (8 × 9 in.); Gift of Gail Martin; 2017-63-1

This object was previously on display as a part of the exhibition Duro Olowu Selects.

There are restrictions for re-using this image. For more information, visit the Smithsonian’s Terms of Use page.

For higher resolution or commercial use contact ArtResource.

If you would like to cite this object in a Wikipedia article please use the following template:

<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://www-4.collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/1158845863/ |title=Ceremonial Hat |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=5 February 2025 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>