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The Global Language of Headwear
  • Introduction
  • Cultural Identity
  • Power, Prestige & Status
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  • Spiritual Beliefs
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Quechuan Woman’s Hat (Montera)

Photo credit: Matthew Hillman
The Quechuan people are descendants of the Inca, the largest pre-Columbian empire in the Americas. The Montera is believed to date back to the Inca culture (1500s). One theory suggests that its design alludes to ancient beliefs (the Inca worshipped the sun god Inti, who was depicted as a golden disk with emanating rays), and was intended to help preserve the Incas’ traditions after they were conquered by the Spanish. Worn today by women throughout the area, the style of Montera can identify the village or region the wearer comes from.

DETAILS

Country: Peru

Date: late 20th century

Medium: straw, fabric

Height: 2

Width: 12

Cultural Identity

Power,
Prestige
& Status

Ceremonies &
Celebrations

Spiritual
Beliefs

Protection

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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