Title
Bark cloth coat
Year/Period
20th century
Region
Sarawak, Malaysia
Material
Accession No.
AA-0093
Collection of
This bark cloth coat was worn by the Kelabits, one of the smallest highland communities of Sarawak. This type of garment was made by their womenfolk. Weaving was not practised by the Kelabits. Bark from the breadfruit tree was often used to process cloth, which was then made into jackets, loincloths, skirts, and also wrappings and blankets. The Kelabits were fierce warriors and headhunters. Their origins are unknown.
