The Dayak people of Borneo attached beaded panels to the backs of rattan baby carriers in the belief that the talsimanic motifs on the panels - and the beads themselves - would proteect the child from negative spirits seeking to steal its soul.

Dayak Beaded Baby Carrier Panel - No. 232

Featuring paired dragon and mask motifs.

Probably made by a Kenyah or Kayan woman, ca. 1890-1935.

European glass beads, vegetal fiber thread.

12.75 x 10.75 in / 32.5 x 27.3 cm

Published

Valerie Hector, "Evoking the Aso':

Dayak Beaded Baby Carriers with Dragon-Dog Motifs" (2022) Fig. 10.

Price on Request.