Notes

The Ekonda, residing in the northwestern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, are a people of the Mongo ethnic group. Village chiefs (nkumu) derive their authority from the elders and actively engage in significant rituals and ceremonies. The Botolo, or hat, held particular significance as one of the chief's essential symbols of office. Items of wealth and prestige, the discs enhanced the visual power of the hat and emphasized the prominence of the chief. ¹

The nkumu was obligated to don the hat whenever appearing in public. During ceremonial events, the hat and metal discs were frequently adorned with a mixture of camwood powder and oil. Following the chief's demise, his botolo was carefully preserved and handed down to the succeeding leader, who would showcase the hat upon assuming office.²

Literature

¹ Doran H. Ross (2003) 'African Art at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston', African Arts, vol. 36, no. 3, pages 34–94.

² Mary Jo Arnoldi and Christine Mullen Kreamer (1995) 'Crowning Achievements: African Arts of Dressing the Head', African Arts, vol. 28, no. 1, pages 22–98.