South Asia, India / Burma border, Nagaland, Naga people, ca. late 19th to mid-20th century CE. A slender wooden panel carved with trophy heads along both ends which functioned as a hair ornament. Men's hair was an important part of Naga culture - hair was worn long and wigs made of animal hair were worn to hide graying or balding. This wood ornament was held in place near the back of the head by coiling hair around the bare middle- the carved trophy heads protruding to the sides to denote a man's rank and/or warrior status. The Naga people are a combination of tribes in northeastern India and northwestern Burma that practiced headhunting. Heads taken from an enemy tribe ensured fertility and prosperity and adornments featuring human and animal heads were often worn during rituals. Size: 12.5" L x 1.25" W (31.8 cm x 3.2 cm); 5" H (12.7 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii collection, acquired 2000 to 2010

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#178660

Missing a head on one end. Minor surface wear and abrasions to wood. Nice patina.