Thai Dance Hat – Coppered Lacquer, Raised Gesso Motifs (Auction 2026-06-05, Lot 236)

$3,855.00

Southeast Asia, Thailand / Cambodia, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A ceremonial conical hat composed of woven palm-leaf cane fronds coated with a thick lacquered surface – black covered with red oxide pigments. The exterior is richly ornamented with applied low-relief motifs in gesso – beaded scrolls, loops, and spirals – arranged in concentric registers that encircle the brim and ascend the tapering crown. A copper wash has been applied overall, lending a golden shimmering hue. Inside, a pair of wooden tabs with pierced holes remain for the attachment of a chin strap, attesting to the hat’s intended wear in ceremonial or dance use. Despite similar classifications in museums as a “war hat,” the lightweight nature and decorative lacquered surface indicate ritual rather than martial function. Such headpieces were associated with Buddhist courtly display, embodying cosmological symbolism through their stupa-like silhouette and radiant finish. Size: 16″ Diameter x 6″ H (40.6 cm x 15.2 cm)

Provenance: private Boise, Idaho, USA collection

Condition: Losses to the lacquered and gesso surface layers along the brim, revealing the woven palm layers. Fading and discoloration to copper pigment. Rubbing and fading to red lacquer on the interior. Stable condition.