The strong and stylized head on this hairpin is mwana hiti, a figure that represents both the male and the female, fertility, ancestors and the continuity of life. The head sits atop refined openwork geometric forms that are delicately carved front and back with diamond shapes and zig-zags. Hairpins were given as gifts to women by their husbands upon moving into a new house or having a child or other life transitions. They would be worn thereafter for ceremonial occasions.
