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Hat

Kuna Kantule hat
ca. 1924
Darién Province, Panama
Palm leaves, macaw and harpy feathers, reed, cotton cord
12/9169

Still very much in use today, the Kantule hat is worn exclusively during the three-to-five-day Inna Suit, or girl’s puberty celebration. During this ceremony the Kantules (Flute Men) are considered the sole authorities in their Kuna community. As a young girl is painted black with the juice of the jagua fruit, has her hair cut, and is given a new name, two Kantules chant and play flutes while the community dances around them.

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