Antique Shaman Bowl.  Dayak Tribe.  West Kalimantan.  Borneo.

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Click the photo above for a larger version and more pictures

 

 

The land of the headhunters – Batang Kanyau river (also known as the Upper Embaloh) – is the traditional homeland of the Kanyau Iban (Dayaks).

 

A Dayak shaman used this bowl to mix herbs, leaves, biological matter, and perhaps blood to concoct a medicinal potion used in healing.  Although I do not see any remnents (via UV light) of blood in the wood, I am confident that this was used through the 1900s to mix such magical and medicinal potions.

 

Phenomenal shape except for a age cracks, some insect holes and a piece missing from the arm of the ASO creature at the far end (see photo).

 

For the Serious Collector.   Stand not included.

 

This item has sold.  Thanks C.R. !