Head coverning c. early to mid 20th century

This anonymous, early to mid-20th century head covering from the Minneapolis Institute of Art is an example of traditional African beadwork. The piece consists of a black cloth base, decorated with a long, cascading fringe of white shell beads. The fringe is accented by a border of colorful beads in red, green, blue, and yellow. Head coverings like this one were likely used for ceremonial purposes and were a significant part of the wearer's cultural identity.