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Dance cap

Kenneth Kaiona (Copper Inuit, ca. 1850–d.?), dance cap
ca. 1920
Coronation Gulf, Alaska
Caribou hide, ermine fur, yellow-billed loon skin, sinew, wool, cotton fabric
20 x 23 x 32 cm
Gift of John D. Ferguson
23/2297

This special style of dance hat was worn by Copper Inuit performers during drum dances at major social events and when welcoming visitors to the village. The upright beak of a yellow-billed loon crowns the bonnet, and narrow alternating strips of light and dark caribou hide and red cloth decorate its front and back. An ermine pelt is attached to the crown. The hat was tied beneath the chin.

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