Inca style hat for bachelors
This hat is made in the traditional Inca style which is only worn by bachelors seeking wives. It is made in wool and looks to be hand dyed with natural dyes. Wool was introduced in Peru, by the Spanish during the 16th century. Alpaca is the tradition fiber used for weaving. Knitting was also most likely introduced by the Spanish. It is likely the tradition behind this hat, developed after the Spanish arrived on their shores.
I bought this hat for US$25.00. The amount of work that went into is amazing. It is knitted in isles style with very fine needles and sometimes with just wire as knitting needles are not always available. There is a plethora of these available in many of the souvenir shops, in bright modern colors.
Traditionally these are made by young men seeking wives. It is supposed to show that that they possess qualities that make them suitable husbands. What are these qualities? Creativity, perseverance, seeing a project to completion and planing.
