The crested plant fiber headpiece represents the hairstyle
of the beautiful Peul or Fulbe women, who although desirable, should
not considered for marriage by a young Dogon man as they resided
outside of the Dogon social structure.
The ornate adornments were
sometimes worn by stilt dancers in masquerades and were associated
with femininity, water and passage to the ancestral realm. The stilt
dancers, acted as intermediaries between the living world of the
Dogon and the spirit world.
The cowrie shells were not only beautiful,
but also symbolized wealth as it was a form of currency.
Note, stands not included.
Headpiece:
Height:30 " x Width: 8" x Depth: 12"
Costume:
Height: 25" x Width: 13"
