Sword Handle
This handle for a sword (Mandau) from northern Borneo is carved from deer antler. A narrow grip of plaited fiber covers the shaft. The handle has a projecting spur adorned with intertwining curvilinear motifs with a central spiral motif on one side and a circular motif with an "X" shape at the center of the other. The tip of the spur and the top of the pommel have holes drilled into them which were originally intended for the insertion of decorative tufts of animal hair.
Artwork Details
- Title: Sword Handle
- Date: Late 19th–early 20th century
- Geography: Indonesia, Borneo
- Culture: Dayak people
- Medium: Antler, fiber
- Dimensions: H. 5 1/2 × W. 3 1/4 in. (14 × 8.3 cm)
- Classification: Bone/Ivory-Implements
- Credit Line: Gift of Fred and Rita Richman, 2013
- Object Number: 2013.1137.33
- Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing
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Kenyah or Kayan artist
late 19th–early 20th century
Dayak artist
19th–early 20th century
Dayak people
Late 19th–20th century
Dayak people
Late 19th–early 20th century
Dayak people
Late 19th–20th century
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