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The top hat as a sign of chieftaincy in Sierra Leone
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The top hat as a sign of chieftaincy in Sierra Leone
The top hat as a sign of chieftaincy in Sierra Leone. The civilised mans head-dress as a symbol of sovereignty for women as well as men rulers. The image at the top of the page shows: wearing his royal top hat: the coronation of the Sokong of Imperri in the Sherbro country. The coronation was presided over by the Bai Sherbro, the suzerain of the whole Sherbro country. Adjoining countries provide a Tasso, who is head of the Poro order. They wear an enormous head covering, on which the skulls of their predecessors repose. The lower image is captioned, the top hat as a sign of sovereignty for queens as well as kings: Queen Messi of Massa attending a political meeting. Date: 1910
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Media ID 14137085
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Carried Coronation Hammock Headgear Headwear Leone Massa Sierra Skulls Sovereignty Tasso Tribes Poro
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative photograph from Sierra Leone in 1910, we witness the profound significance of the top hat as a symbol of chieftaincy and sovereignty in African culture. The image at the top of the page captures the coronation of the Sokong of Imperri, the ruler of the Sherbro country, as he proudly dons his royal top hat. The ceremony is presided over by the Bai Sherbro, the suzerain of the entire Sherbro region, who is himself adorned with an enormous head covering that holds the skulls of his predecessors. The lower image showcases Queen Messi of Massa, a powerful queen from the same era, attending a political meeting while being carried in a hammock. She too wears a top hat, signifying her sovereignty and authority within her tribe. The top hat, a symbol of the civilized man's head-dress, held great significance for both men and women rulers in African societies. This photograph offers a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the Sherbro people and other African tribes during the early 1900s. The top hat, carried forward from European influence, became an essential part of their regal attire, symbolizing the fusion of cultures and the enduring strength of their sovereignty. The image serves as a testament to the intriguing history of headwear in African cultures and the profound meaning it holds for their leaders.
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