641 Purple Silk Embroidery on Traditonal Chust Hat Kumptera Uzbekistan

#641  The ubiquitous square black skullcap worn mainly by men and boys throughout Uzbekistan originated in the city of Chust, located in the Ferghana Valley. It is characterized by four highly stylized “kalampir” (capsicum peppers). The intense heat of the peppers was thought to protect the wearer from evil spirits. The crown of the hat was encircled by a border of arches which some say symbolize gates through which no enemy can pass.  The stiff treated cotton is hand embroidered in purple silk; lined with print cotton; purchased at Kumtepa Market 5-13-2013; good condition; c 1960’s – 1970’s; folds up; 22” circumference; p 140-141 Silk and Cotton by Susan Meller