Lot 213: Two Dayak Ethnographic Items, a Blowpipe Spear and a Carved Bamboo Quiver
This lot comprises two ethnographic objects originating from the Dayak people of Borneo. The first item is a dual-purpose blowpipe and spear, known as a sumpitan. It is constructed from a single piece of dense, dark hardwood, meticulously bored through its centre to function as a blowpipe. A leaf-shaped forged iron spearhead is lashed to the muzzle end with woven rattan bindings. The wood displays a dark, polished patina from age and use. The second item is a cylindrical blowpipe dart quiver, known as a telon, made from a bamboo internode with a fitted wooden cap. The exterior surface is decorated with intricate, incised traditional Dayak scrollwork patterns. The bamboo exhibits a honey-coloured aged patina with darkened recesses highlighting the carvings. Both items are marked with orange adhesive labels bearing the printed characters 213.
Condition report:
Overall good ethnographic condition. The hardwood spear shaft shows surface wear and minor scuffs consistent with age. The iron spearhead has a darkened surface with minor oxidation. Rattan bindings remain intact but appear dry. The bamboo quiver shows light surface wear and a natural aged patina. Adhesive auction labels are present on both pieces.
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