The Ashetu is known as a prestige hat for dignitaries of the Bamun and the Bamileke peoples of the Cameroon Grassfield region. In this Cameroon Grasslands region hats are made in wide variety of media such as vegetable fiber, cotton, and feathers, and in different shapes. This one is made with handwoven fabric, decorated with multi-color trade beads. The burls or "dreads" are crocheted over individual wooden pegs. Hats are part of prestigious regalia in the Cameroon grasslands. They are worn by men during special ceremonies. It is unimaginable to see a notable in an outfit without his hat. Rather than a simple accessory hat could be an indication of the owner's social rank and status. These sculptural hats are sometimes represented on carved figures.