Description:

Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Borneo, Central Kalimantan, Dayak peoples or possibly Philippines, Moro peoples as it was purportedly found on Mindanao Island, ca. 17th to 18th century CE. A fascinating rendering of a headhunter's trophy skull, skillfully carved from a white stone with delineated eye orbitals, nasal details, ears, teeth, and lobed/striated motifs on the back of the head. The Dayak people of old were feared hunters known for their occasional cannibalistic tendencies as well as their affinity and cultural attachment to headhunting. Young men would symbolically transition into manhood by being tasked with taking the life of an enemy combatant. This practice enabled young warriors to prove their masculinity and bravery by taking possession of the soul of the slain foe. The collected skulls were kept in the house of the hunter as trophies, proof of their prowess as a warrior. Size: 6.5" L x 4.5" W x 4.875" H (16.5 cm x 11.4 cm x 12.4 cm)

Provenance: private Johnson collection, Los Angeles, California, USA

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#153057

  • Condition: Expected surface wear commensurate with age with softening to some details, though many are still relatively strong. Small concave depression on underside. Scattered surface deposits as shown.

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August 6, 2020 10:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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