Crown (Primary Title)

Unknown (Artist)

20th century
Yoruba
glass beads, cloth, string
Nigeria, Republic of Benin
Overall: 3 3/4 × 7 1/4 in. dia. (9.53 × 18.42 cm)
93.101
This crown reflects influences of both Islam and European colonialism: its cylindrical shape and tassel resemble a Muslim fez, while the beaded design on the side is a crown of European origin. According to tradition, a Yoruba king will wear a crownappropriate to the ceremony in which he is participating, such as the Muslim celebration of Ramadan or the Christian celebrations of Christmas and Easter.
Unsigned
Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Hammer
"Look Here: Dazzle." Richmond: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. 2 November 2005-29 January 2006.

"Spirit of the Motherland." Roanoke: Museum of Western Virginia. September 1995- January 1996. Newport News: Peninsula Fine Arts Center. January- May 1996.
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC

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