Hat c. 20th century

This hat was made by the Short Skirt Miao people. The geometric shapes, and in particular the lozenge patterns are what catch my eye. The lozenge motif, seen here in vibrant reds and purples, echoes across cultures, appearing in ancient textiles and ritual objects from different corners of the world. It is a symbol that speaks of potential and transformation. In some cultures, the lozenge represents the vulva and is associated with fertility, mirroring the life-giving power of the Earth Mother. This symbol transcends mere decoration; it is a vessel of primal energy. Observe how the lozenge evolves—from simple representation to a complex geometric form in later works, reflecting changing cultural values. The motifs of the collective unconscious, like the lozenge, endure, resurfacing in new forms and contexts.