We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the Country on which the Art Gallery of NSW stands.

Title

Armband

19th century-20th century

Artists

Unknown Artist

  • Details

    Other Title
    Bracelet
    Places where the work was made
    Kalimantan → Borneo → Indonesia
    Sarawak → Borneo → Malaysia
    Date
    19th century-20th century
    Media category
    Jewellery
    Materials used
    silver alloy
    Dimensions
    3.0 x 1.5 x 11.0 cm diam.
    Credit
    Christopher Worrall Wilson Bequest 2010
    Location
    Not on display
    Accession number
    548.2010
    Copyright

    Reproduction requests

    Share

  • About

    Among the Dayak and Iban societies of Borneo, armbands and bracelets made from wood, shell, ivory and various metals are worn by males and females of all ages. The scrolling ornamentation on this armband resembles designs of protective paired dragons and the undulating waters of the underworld, which are found tattooed on the body and emblazoned on the surface of all manner of objects including clothing, weapons and baby carriers.

  • Exhibition history

    Shown in 1 exhibition

    • Glorious, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney, 27 May 2017–06 Jan 2019

  • Bibliography

    Referenced in 2 publications

  • Provenance

    Christopher Wilson, pre Nov 1986-1996, Sydney/New South Wales/Australia, probably purchased in Sarawak, Malaysia mid 1970s or in 1985. Appears in 'Southeast Asian tribal art', an unpublished text by Christopher Wilson, College of Fine Arts, Sydney, November 1986.

    Mariann Ford, 1996-Dec 2010, Sydney/New South Wales/Australia, inherited from the estate of Christopher Wilson. Gift to the Art Gallery of New South Wales as part of the Christopher Worrall Wilson Bequest 2010.