Boy's hat
Not on view
As a Neo-Confucian dynasty, Joseon was a patriarchal and patrilineal society which placed a great deal of value on having sons. Sons could preserve family lineages and secure and maintain power and influence. The birth of a son was not only desired but essential, particularly for an upper-class family.Hence there were elaborate birthday celebrations for boys. Along with a colorful outfit, a boy would wear this kind of hood-like hat. To secure the hat, the long ties were wrapped to the back and tied. The stylized characters and motifs in gold leaf convey auspicious sentiments of blessings and longevity.