Tulband van 'nachtblauw' zijden fluweel c. 1967

This midnight-blue velvet turban was crafted by Christian Dior. The turban, a head covering with origins stretching back to ancient Mesopotamia, evokes a sense of timelessness and cultural fusion. Historically, the turban signified status, religious affiliation, and regional identity. Dior's adaptation moves away from the turban's original cultural context, but still retains an aura of exoticism and elegance. The way the fabric is draped and knotted around the head bears a striking resemblance to depictions of draped figures in classical sculpture. Consider the Roman toga, or the veils of Renaissance Madonnas. The turban, then, transcends its specific cultural origins, and becomes a symbol of something else. It becomes an almost primal expression of protection and adornment. In the collective subconscious, head coverings often represent concealment, mystery, or even the sacred. The deep blue color further enhances this sense of depth and introspection. It reminds us of the cyclical nature of fashion.