Military Headdress c. 1938

This military headdress, depicted by James H.C. Vail, appears to be made from leather, with metallic elements, and decorative cords. The material itself—leather—speaks volumes. Tanned hide is a resilient, adaptable substance, historically vital for military gear. Note the way the leather is creased and worn, suggesting use, and a history of its own. The metallic embellishments, including the eagle emblem, project authority and power. Then there are the decorative cords, which seem almost fragile in comparison to the robust leather. Consider, too, the labor involved in producing such an object. From tanning the leather to crafting the metal details and assembling the headdress, many hands and skills would have been required. This is not merely an aesthetic object; it is a product of complex social and economic relationships. Looking at the materials, the making, and the context is essential for understanding the headdress, and its broader cultural significance.