Artwork Page for Wig (uyembe matota, wiyembe, or pulumba)

Details / Information for Wig (uyembe matota, wiyembe, or pulumba)

Wig (uyembe matota, wiyembe, or pulumba)

early to mid 1900s

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo or Angola, Chokwe, early to mid 20th century

Medium
Plant fiber, pelt, and clay
Measurements
Overall: 12.7 x 24.8 x 27.3 cm (5 x 9 3/4 x 10 3/4 in.)
Credit Line
The Jane B. Tripp Charitable Lead Annuity Trust 2007.1
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Description

Among the Chokwe, hats, diadems, and wigs of all sorts made in a variety of materials were once commonly worn by both men and women. Some were exclusive to religious and political titles. This wig imitates a female hairstyle in vogue until the 1960s. Made by a male craftsman, it was most typically worn by a woman at dances and other public festivals.
A horizontally oriented plant fiber and clay wig features a surface of tightly packed, coiled loops encrusted with muted brown clay. Toward our left, a small patch of striped animal pelt with brown and tan fur is attached near the top, while a narrow section of fur extends across the surface toward our right. The repetitive coils create a dense, knobby texture across the thick oval form.

Wig (uyembe matota, wiyembe, or pulumba)

early to mid 1900s

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo or Angola, Chokwe, early to mid 20th century

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