Comparative Analysis of “Bobuonnyuk” Headdresses from Yakut Burial Sites of the 18th – Early 19th Centuries

This article presents a technical description and comparative analysis of six bonnet-shaped headdresses of the “Bobuonnyuk” type from 18th – to early 19th-century Yakut burial sites in Central Yakutia (Megino-Kangalas, Churapcha, Tatta, and Ust-Aldan uluses, and the outskirts of Yakutsk). The novelty of this study lies in the limited scholarly coverage of historical Yakut headdresses and in the unique decorative features of these headdresses, which include figured cutouts on the frontal and occipital parts. The study aims to introduce these artifacts into academic discourse, analyze their construction, materials, and sewing techniques, and assess their cultural significance. The research methods included visual inspection, measurements, and comparative analysis of cut patterns, materials, and sewing techniques. The results revealed a uniform cut across all six items, indicating a standardized pattern, while also highlighting technological variations that reflect the individual craftsmanship of different makers. The complex construction comprises more than ten pattern pieces, including a fronto-occipital panel with decorative inserts (rectangular or trapezoidal on the forehead, double-arched on the back), six sickle-shaped lateral pieces forming the ear flaps, and fur trims. The headdresses were made from costly materials such as silk jacquard, silk moiré, broadcloth, daba cotton fabric, and precious furs (sable, beaver, wolverine, fox, ermine, and squirrel). Some specimens feature metal discs (tuosakhta) and stamped plaques. The presence of these materials, along with rich grave goods, indicates that these headdresses belonged to the Yakut nobility. The widespread distribution of nearly identical headdresses across a vast territory suggests the existence of common fashion trends and close interclan contacts among the Yakut people in the 18th – early 19th centuries. A comparative analysis with the crowns of 19th – 20th-century Dzhabaka hats demonstrates cultural and technological continuity, as the “Bobuonnyuk” bonnets evolved into the decorative crests of the later headdress type. The findings contribute to the reconstruction of historical costume and to the adaptation of traditional Yakut elements for modern ethnic clothing.