Children’s hats

Description:	Childrens hats like these have been worn in China for many centuries. In Chinese culture, the head is considered a very important part of the human body and is well protected, especially on babies. Childrens hats depict different creatures and plants with special cultural significance, including the tiger, dragon, phoenix, bat, fish, butterfly, peony, lotus, pomegranate and many more. The tiger, known for its strength and fierceness, represents qualities ideal for a boy. Also, the tiger is the protector of silkworms and disperses evil spirits. Because of their good eyesight, they are said to be able to see spirits in the dark. When a tiger is shown with butterflies, it is a wish to live 70 to 80 years. Contemporary versions of these types of hats are still being produced.
Source:	http://www.digitalindy.org/cdm/ref/collection/tcm/id/828
Collection:	The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
Rights:	https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/;
Copyright:	Creative Commons (CC By-SA 3.0);
Geography:	China
Subjects:	China China -- Social life and customs Hats Headgear Folklore -- China Costume -- China Clothing and dress

Further information on this record can be found at its source.