Naga Woven Headhunter Hat Sidley Collection
Width: 7
Depth: 8
Description
An ornate Naga Headhunter's Hat with graduating natural materials around the top of the hat and two striking horns on the side. Woven with fibers and braided cords, this piece has a beautiful character and has been well-preserved.
The Naga, residing in India's northeastern mountains, comprise various tribes with shared cultural practices. Traditional livelihoods shifted due to British colonization in the 19th century, with subsequent integration into the Indian state. Christian missionaries also influenced Naga culture, leading to widespread conversion to Christianity. Today, English is the official language of Nagaland.
The Naga were once head-hunters with ornamentation serving as a means for the Naga to express identity and social status, with jewelry and attire historically awarded to skilled warriors.
Provenance: Niña Sidley Collection
After a long career in publishing, Niña Sidley returned to her first love: collecting the art, artifacts, and textiles of the world’s indigenous peoples. Part of her mission has been to educate others and to honor the extraordinary creativity, ingenuity, and heartfelt messages these handmade works send from their makers. Niña believes this deep respect for tradition and beauty inspires and ties all of us together as one world.
Height (In)
8
Width (In)
7
Depth (In)
8
149244
Approximate Age: Early 20th Century
People: Naga
Country of Origin: India
Material
Condition
Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.