#43 • Kayan Dayak Beaded Baby Carrier Borneo

Part of Professor’s Collection Part One: Pacific & Pre-Columbian Artifacts (live auction by Blue Box Auction Gallery)

Starting at $200.00

Status: No sale

Estimated Value: $650-950 Origin: Borneo Island Dimensions: 14x6.5x11.75 in.  Condition: Some beads have come loose and have some fraying of the threads. Additional Information: A beaded and fiber baby carrier with swirling designs and flower designs on the back formed with sewn on colorful beads. The carrier has the traditional "aso" figure integrated to serve as protection for the child. The larger the aso, the more noble the family and the deeper the ancestral roots. The basket has a rounded shape with straps on the back, a wooden seat panel on the bottom, and tightly woven fibers.  The figures and designs formed by the beads are talismanic panels or can harness spiritual power that help to protect a child's body and soul from harm in their first few years of life.   Provenance reportedly from Mark Johnson, Marina del Rey, CA.