ALVIN GAVENOR | 'Kajawur - Dance Hat' (2) | Artefact

"The dance hat is also called 'Kajawur' in our Lardil language. Human hair is spun into string and wound onto a bark frame. Frequently red ochre called Nguyinen is applied as decoration. The white clay is termed 'Kayal' and is also used as medicine and body paint during corroboree. Some artist acrylic paint is used. The hats are topped with emu feathers, which are not endemic to Mornington Island but were traded with mainland people. The hats are worn during dancing and ceremonies by men only. Both men and women make hats, but the people with the skill have declined and now only a couple of people make them." Alvin Gavenor

ALVIN GAVENOR | 'Kajawur - Dance Hat' (2) | Artefact

Measurements: 23 (dia) x 50 (h) cm