Papuan Gulf, Gogodala, Man’s hat. , diba
29 cm
Presented to a man at initiation, the diba was permanently affixed to the top of the head with wax or resin, any hair that remained exposed was carefully trimmed off. The diba served a protective function, as malevolent spirits were believed to enter the body through the hair. The hats were only removed when they had worn out and needed to be replaced or during mourning
€ 450