Tattoo Pattern

P217

From: Borneo | Sarawak

Curatorial Section: Oceanian

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Object Number P217
Current Location Collections Storage
Culture Kayan
Provenience Borneo | Sarawak
Section Oceanian
Materials Wood
Description

Flat piece of wood carved to leave a pattern in high relief. The block is inked and pressed onto the skin as a guide for the tattooing. May be a version of what Furness identifies as the "Iban 'kala,' the scorpion - for the outside of a man's thigh." Identified by Hose and Shelford as "Sea-Dayak [Iban] modification of the dog design. But known as 'scorpion' (kala)." Black ink on back.

Length 12.7 cm
Width 5.7 cm
Thickness 1 cm
Credit Line Gift of Dr. William H. Furness 3rd., 1898

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