Description:

Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Borneo, East / Central Kalimantan, Mahakam River, Dayak peoples, Bahau group, ca. early 20th century CE. A set of hand-carved Dayak wood and deer bone tattooing tools in near pristine condition, that includes the needle implement and the tapper mallet. The iron needle point is wrapped in cotton threads and set into the mouth of the bone finial head, which is carved into the form of a mythical aso, a dragon-dog creature - the fierce visage adorned with spiraling motifs. The tip of the wooden handle of the needle tool and mallet are both inlaid with bone discs. To use, the needle was dipped in ink and the handle held in one hand while the mallet stick was held in the other hand to tap the needle into the skin like a hammer. Size: 12" L x 1.5" W (30.5 cm x 3.8 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, 1995 to 2010; ex-Dr. Gallagher collection, Sydney, Australia, 1960 to 2000

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#171725

  • Condition: Minor fraying to one end of the cotton fiber wrapping the needle and minor mineral deposits and patina. Overall intact and in beautiful condition! Not recommended for use, even if tetanus shot is up to date.

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August 25, 2022 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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