Forehead ornament

late 19th–early 20th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 351

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.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Forehead ornament
Artist: Kenyah or Kayan artist
Date: late 19th–early 20th century
Geography: Indonesia, Borneo, Kalimantan
Culture: Kenyah or Kayan peoples
Medium: Brass
Dimensions: H. 6 × W. 3 3/4 × D. 1 3/4 in. (15.2 × 9.5 × 4.4 cm)
Classification: Metal-Ornaments
Credit Line: Bequest of John B. Elliott, 1997
Object Number: 1999.47.13
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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