Shield "kliau" · Indonesia - Borneo, Dayak · ID: 3040160
not available anymore
Provenance
André Lhote, Paris, France, Cubist painter (1885–1962)Drouot-Paris, Collection André Lhote, 17 December 1979, lot 276
Size
H: 129 cm
H: 50.8 inch
Description
soft and light “jelutong” wood, shield and grip carved from a single piece, on both sides painted in black and red with stylized dragon motifs and all kinds of intricate figures, strengthened with rattan strips to prevent splitting when struck by a sword, slightly dam. (pointed endings), traces of insect caused damage (handle), cracks, abrasion of paint (middle ridge);
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.
Comparing literature
van Zonneveld, Albert G., Traditional weapons of the Indonesian Archipelago, Leiden 2001, p. 73