AGamsbart (German:['gamsbɑːʁt], literally "chamois' beard") is a decorativeplume worn on hats inAustria andBavaria that is traditionally made from the long hair that grows along the backbone and top of the neck of an adult malechamois (German:Gämse) in winter.[1] Fashioned into the form of abrush orfan, aGamsbart was originally a huntingtrophy worn as an ornament on hunter's hats.Gamsbärte (plural) can also be found on other types of hats that are part of the various types ofTracht, traditional costume that is still worn on special occasions in those regions.
AGamsbart is made by enclosing the lower end of the tuft of hair in a setting ofmetal orhorn that allows the upper end to spread in a brush- or fan-like fashion. Traditionally, hairs are selected for a dark color at the lower end with a very light tip. The size and diameter of theGamsbart are important signs of the wearer's pride and manliness. Though traditionally worn by men, recent developments indirndl fashion have seenGamsbärte added to various places on female dresses.
Decorative hat plumes made from the hair of other animals such as goats, antelopes and badgers are calledWildbart orWildhaarbart, the German wordWild meaninggame.[2][3]
