Congolese Kuba People Headband: "Mbup"
Collection: Everyday Connections
Object Category: Traditional Clothing and Adornment
Country: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Continent: Africa
Geographic Region: Middle Africa
length: 18 in;
height: 1.5 in;
depth: .5 in
This ceremonial headband, worn by Kuba royal families in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is called “Mbup”. The red textile backing is adorned with glass beads and cowrie shells. Cowrie shells indicate wealth and power in Congo. The king was so wealthy he purportedly ate pulverized cowrie shells as part of his diet.
Source:
http://exquisiteafricanart.com/jewellery/kuba-mbup-royal-headband/