Umqhele

An umqhele ([umǃʰɛle], plural imiqhele)^[1] is a traditional Zulu circular headband made of fur.^[2] Imiqhele were worn by Zulu men prior to colonization of South Africa, especially by soldiers and elites,^[3] and are worn by male members of the Nazareth Baptist Church.^[4] They are also worn by Ndebele people, who make them from the tails of cattle.^[5] Nazareth Baptist Church imiqhele are frequently made from the fur of leopards, antelope, or serval.^[6]

A Nazareth Baptist Church follower wearing an umqhele on a pilgrimage in 2009

See also

• List of fur headgear