Forehead Ornament

Unknown

late 19th–early 20th century · Copper-alloy · Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

Among the most distinctive types of metalwork in Borneo were brass forehead ornaments made by the Kenyah, Kayan, and neighboring peoples and worn by warriors. The ornaments were attached to war helmets made from coiled basketry and offered protection from enemy weapons as well as serving as marks of wealth and social rank. Kenyah/Kayan societies are divided into hereditary social classes: high chiefs, minor nobility, commoners, and, formerly, slaves. Only members of the highest ranks are allowed to wear or use objects decorated with human-like faces or figures. This ornament, which depicts a stylized human face, was likely worn by a man of noble birth.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 19th–early 20th century

Medium

Copper-alloy

Culture

Kenyah or Kayan peoples

Department

Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

Credit line

Bequest of John B. Elliott, 1997