Tattoo Pattern

P222

From: Borneo | Sarawak

Curatorial Section: Oceanian

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Object Number P222
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. Similar to a pattern identified by Furness as a design used by the Kenyahs of the Baram, the 'kala asu' or scorpion dog, for the forearm or thigh and by Hose and Shelford as a "Kayan dog design for thighs of men."

Length 5.5 cm
Width 12.3 cm
Credit Line Gift of Dr. William H. Furness 3rd., 1898

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