Mad Hatters

From left to right: Wedding headdress (ekori), Namibia, Himba peoples, mid 20th century; Royal crown (ade), Nigeria, Yoruba peoples, late 19th to early 20th century; Warrior's helmet, South Sudan, Lotuxo peoples, first half of the 20th century

"African Headwear: Beyond Fashion" is the new exhibit hosted by the Dallas Museum of Art. This exhibition celebrating African decorative design explores the way in which headwear signifies status in traditional African societies. Often made up of unusual materials such as anteater skin and lion's mane, the headwear also incorporates elements still used today such as glass beads and ostrich feathers.
There are over 40 objects, both from the Museum's renown African art collection as well as from private collections, on display divided neatly into three categories: Professional Headwear, Men's and Woman's Headwear, and Headwear for Kings and Queens.

Catch this breathtaking look at craftsmanship in Sub-Saharan African if you're in the Dallas area from now until January 1st, 2012.