Dayak baby carrier - Glass, natural fibers - Indonesia - 20th century

Baby carrier from the Dayak tribe, Kalimantan, Indonesia. This baby carrier is made of woven rattan over a wooden base and an exterior coloured beaded panel. The central figure in the panel depicts a central demon figure surrounded by white partial motifs over a dark background. The curled tendril-like motifs are characteristic of Kayan/Kenyah Dayak art. It was believed that the souls of young children might wander and come into contact with disease and illness. The dramatic demonic figure on the beaded panel was designed to protect the child by scaring off marauding spirits.The panel is attached to the rattan frame with what looks like natural fibers. Wood, glass beads, rattan, natural fibers. Mid 20th century or earlier. Dimensions: 33 x 37 x 14 cm

Estimate:$496.05

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