Hat Item Number: 1928.966 from the MAA: University of Cambridge

Description

Red cedar bark hat which has a slightly depressed crown, a raised rim at its edge and a reddish tinge to the crown, as if it has been painted. Inside the hat a headband has been woven, to ensure a secure fit for the wearer.; Good

Context

The large conical hats are typical of the southern coastal area, of the Nootka or Nuu-Chah-Nulth peoples. The original European tribal names and, where possible, current tribal names have both been given in separate GLT fields.; Such large cedar bark hats were used as part of everyday attire, and were very useful for keeping off the rain. The hats which were decorated with painted designs were used for ceremonial occasions, such as feasts and potlatches (G.Crowther).