Often called a laket, a Kuba ceremonial hat is a traditional handwoven headpiece from the Kuba Kingdom in the Democratic Republic of the Congo that holds deep cultural and historic significance. 

Crafted from raffia palm fibres and embellished with beads and shells which historically symbolised wealth, the more decorative the higher the social standing. They are an essential attire for men, during important community rituals, initiations and funerals, marking their passage into elder or title-holding status.