Shield "kelebit bok" ("kliau’), around 1920

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Description

wood (“jelutong”), pigments, rattan,

The front is densely covered in rows with tufts of human hair, testifying to the owner’s success in warfare. The hair is said to have come from slain enemies. The centre is painted with the face of a demon, whose eyes are traditionally arranged in five concentric circles. Two spirit figures on the reverse.

Wood shields were used for protection in warfare, on headhunting raids, or ceremonial display. The spiritually charged “monster” figure painted on the front is meant to frighten the enemy.

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Comparing literature

Evans, Bill (ed.), Shields from the Pacific, Island Southeast Asia, Vol I, Brussels 2019, p. 104

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