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Frafra Horned Headdress

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Collection: African Art Collection
Description: This horned headdress is strapped to the head of a warrior who dances while stomping his feet like an angry bull. A wicker frame forms the base of the headdress. While some pieces are covered with cloth before attaching cowrie shells, this headdress has cowrie shells attached directly to the wicker cap. The horns are attached and protrude as if they are coming from the masquerader’s head. Bright colored leathers and cloth attachments are used to secure the headdress and for decorations. This headdress collected in 1975 remains in good condition.
Artists/Makers: The Frafra Ghana Read Biography

The Frafra

GEOGRAPHY / CULTURE GROUP: West Africa. One of the lesser-known tribal groups of Ghana are the Frafra who reside in the northeast of the country. The annual Deaya festival, with multiple tribes participating is held in Bolgatanga with the Frafra goal being to honor warriors and to promote peace while maintaining the culture of the Frafra people. The highlight of the festival is when the warriors and hunters dance wearing the stunning horned headdress covered with cowrie shells and clothing adorned with Frafra regalia.
Student Work: No
Culture: Frafra
Geography: Ghana, West Africa
Medium: Raffia, cloth, leather, cowrie shells, cow leather, native rope, and antelo
Classification: Headdress
Accession Number: 2022.01.030
Accession Date: May 2022
Donated By: Reginald and Celeste Hodges
Donation Date: May 2022