Old Borneo Dayak Iban Ceremonial Basket

Old Borneo Dayak Iban Ceremonial Basket

Culture: Dayak Iban
Region: Borneo (Sarawak / West Kalimantan)
Date: Early to mid-20th century (circa)

This ceremonial basket represents a distinctive form of Dayak Iban ritual craftsmanship. The vessel is finely handwoven in a tight, regular pattern, forming a slightly tapering cylindrical body with a reinforced rim. A pronounced vertical band runs down the body, providing visual structure and balance to the overall composition.

The basket is elevated on four carved anthropomorphic supports arranged symmetrically around the base. Each support is rendered as a stylized standing figure with simplified facial features and bent legs, functioning both as feet and as symbolic guardians. These carved elements are securely lashed to the basket body, integrating sculptural and utilitarian forms into a single ceremonial object.

The base is constructed with a robust circular framework and cross-braced interior, indicating careful attention to durability despite the object’s ritual role. A braided cord attached to the body suggests it may have been suspended, carried, or hung during ceremonial use. The surface shows a deep, even patina consistent with age and prolonged handling, with minor abrasions and wear that attest to authentic use rather than decorative intent.

Such baskets were traditionally associated with ceremonial contexts, including ritual storage, offerings, or the safekeeping of culturally significant items. The combination of refined basketry and anthropomorphic carving reflects Iban cosmological beliefs, where protective figures and everyday objects merge to serve both practical and spiritual purposes.

Price include shipping by DHl worldwide.