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The Global Language of Headwear
  • Introduction
  • Cultural Identity
  • Power, Prestige & Status
  • Ceremonies & Celebrations
  • Spiritual Beliefs
  • Protection
  • Credits

Basotho Hat (Mokorotlo)

Photo credit: Matthew Hillman
This grass hat is considered part of the national dress of Lesotho, a country landlocked within South Africa. Worn by the Basotho people, the hat became popular in the mid-1900s, as it was closely associated with the formation of national identity. When Lesotho gained its independence from Britain in 1966, the Mokorotlo was chosen as the symbol to adorn the national flag.

DETAILS

Country: Lesotho

Date: late 20th century

Medium: straw

Height: 9

Width: 12

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Current Location

The Citadelle Art Museum
Canadian, TX

Sep 15, 2020 – January 23, 2021

Tour Schedule

The Schingoethe Center of Aurora University, Aurora, IL
Mar 16, 2021 – May 21, 2021

Kalamazoo Valley Museum
Kalamazoo, MI

Jul 17, 2021 – Oct 24, 2021

Fullerton Museum Center
Fullerton CA

Nov 20, 2021 – Jan 16, 2022

Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, Wausau, WI
Dec 3, 2022 – Feb 26, 2023

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