Title
Woman’s ceremonial skirt
Year/Period
Late 19th-early 20th century
Region
West Kalimantan, Borneo
Dimension
Object size: L 51.5 x W 46.2
Accession No.
1997-04615
Collection of
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Andy Ng
This beaded skirt comes from the Maloh people in West Kalimantan, Borneo. The middle panel depicts human figures which represent ancestor spirits. The skirt is decorated with beads, which are considered rare commodities, and has brass bells attached at the hem. Garments sewn with beads are thought to have increased ritual and protective qualities. It is believed that during the harvest ceremonies if more beads were displayed on textiles, they will bring more bountiful harvests.
