Mid 20th Century Dayak Shaman’s Carved Bone Powder Container With Anthropomorphic Stopper – Borneo Indonesia

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A finely detailed ethnographic artifact from the Dayak peoples of Borneo. This mid-20th century powder container features a hand-carved cylindrical … Read more A finely detailed ethnographic artifact from the Dayak peoples of Borneo. This mid-20th century powder container features a hand-carved cylindrical body made from animal bone, etched with traditional scrimshaw-style geometric motifs. The container is topped with a wooden stopper carved in the form of a stylized human figure—likely representing a guardian or ancestral spirit.

Traditionally used by shamans to carry ritual powders, herbs, or tobacco, this piece was both spiritual and functional, often worn or carried during ceremonies. Its aged patina, hand-tooling, and symbolic detailing make it a striking addition to any ethnographic art collection or global-inspired interior. See less