Old Borneo Dayak Bamboo Quiver With Carved Hornbill Holder

Old Borneo Dayak Bamboo Quiver with Carved Hornbill Holder 

This is a remarkable example of an old Borneo Dayak bamboo quiver, traditionally used by indigenous Dayak tribes for carrying blowpipe darts. The quiver is meticulously crafted from a single segment of aged bamboo, showcasing a rich, dark patina developed through years of use and exposure.

Two intricately woven rattan rings encircle the bamboo body, providing both structural reinforcement and decorative appeal. Secured to the side of the quiver is a long, slender, carved wooden dart holder shaped into the stylized form of a hornbill — a revered totemic bird in Dayak culture symbolizing power, ancestral spirits, and protection. The hornbill form is abstract yet distinctive, with a gracefully elongated beak and a subtle, elegant curve to its silhouette.

This utilitarian object is not merely functional; it also carries deep cultural significance. Such quivers were often personalized and imbued with spiritual meaning, sometimes used in hunting as well as ritual contexts. The fine craftsmanship, the symbolic carved hornbill figure, and the natural materials used reflect the Dayak people’s intimate relationship with their environment and their rich artistic heritage.

Collected from Borneo, likely from the central or eastern regions, this piece stands as a compelling ethnographic artifact.

H -40 x 6.5 x 4.5 cm

Height with stand – 45 cm / 397 g

Price include custom stand and shipping worldwide by air mail.