Heads of State, Style, and Story: Crowns Across Cultures
Dublin Core
Title
Heads of State, Style, and Story: Crowns Across Cultures
Subject
Study of ceremonial crowns and headpieces across different cultures and time periods.
Description
This curated collection explores the symbolism, artistry, and cultural significance of crowns from around the world. From sacred Yoruba regalia to 20th-century pageant tiaras, these artifacts reflect diverse expressions of power, beauty, and identity.
Creator
Group 3
Source
Items from this collection are derived from a range of cultural and archival materials, including the Ron Sanford Papers housed at Vanderbilt University Special Collections.
Publisher
Vanderbilt University Library, Vanderbilt University Special Collections
Date
Spring 2025
Contributor
Vraj Dirajlal, Fabio Lo, Samuel Lee Sangmyung, Aidan Reed
Rights
All rights reserved by Vanderbilt University Special Collections. Materials used with permission.
Format
Digital exhibition collection; includes images, descriptions, and archival references.
Language
English
Type
Curated Cultural Collection / Digital Exhibit
Collection Items
Yoruba Sacred Crown
A cone-shaped crown with beaded veil is the most important element of royal regalia among the Yoruba. Reserved for ceremonial occasions, only rulers descended from the deity Oduduwa may wear them. To consecrate a sacred crown, magical herbal…
Small Crown from the 1997 Miss Gay America Pageant
This crown was presented to Lauren Taylor upon her victory at the 1997 Miss Gay America pageant, held in Charlotte, North Carolina. The crown is currently in the possession of performer Carmella Marcella Garcia.
Large Crown from the 1989 Miss Gay US of A
This ornate crown was worn by drag performer Carmella Marcella Garcia during the inaugural Miss Gay US of A at-large pageant in 1989. Garcia placed as the fourth alternate in the competition. The pageant was held in Dallas, Texas, and the title was…