"The headdress shape conforms to Pende stylistic conventions: the bicorn headdress is said to allude to the strength and power of the buffalo in a reference to the associated powers of chieftancy. Among the Pende these headdresses are called ' Misango Mapende'." [Christine Mullen Kreamer, 1995: Spectacular Hats for Special Occasions. Crowning Achievements, UCLA Fowler Museum of Cultural History]. During his trip to Congo (now Democratic Republic of Congo), Elisofon visited Gungu and its surroundings in Kwilu Pende people's region. This photograph was taken when Eliot Elisofon traveled to Africa from March 17, 1970 to July 17, 1970.
Local Numbers:
C 3 PND 11 EE 70
General:
Title is provided by EEPA staff based on photographer's notes.
Exhibitions Note:
"TxtStyles/Fashioning Identity," held by the National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, from June 6 through December 28, 2008.
Local Note:
80
Frame value is 19.
Slide No. C 3 PND 11 EE 70
Collection Restrictions:
Use of original records requires an appointment. Contact Archives staff for more details.
Collection Rights:
Permission to reproduce images from the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives must be obtained in advance. The collection is subject to all copyright laws.