Old Dayak Rattan Hat

Old Dayak Rattan Hat (c. 1940s)

Culture: Dayak, Borneo
Material: Finely woven rattan with shell-sequin embellishments and textile trim
Dimensions: 8 × 19 × 19 cm
Weight: 43 g
Estimated Age: 1940s

A rare and evocative example of traditional Dayak craftsmanship, this finely woven rattan hat embodies the ingenuity and aesthetic refinement of the indigenous peoples of Borneo. Constructed from carefully selected natural rattan fibers, the hat displays an exceptionally tight and uniform weave, demonstrating the technical skill of its maker and the importance of basketry traditions within Dayak material culture.

Its elegant domed form is enriched with delicate shell-sequin ornamentation arranged around the crown, creating a striking geometric motif centered upon a radiating star design. The subtle shimmer of the shell elements contrasts beautifully with the warm, honey-brown patina acquired through decades of age and use. Around the lower edge, remnants of vibrant red textile trim provide a vivid accent, lending the piece both ceremonial character and visual distinction.

Lightweight yet remarkably durable, hats of this type were often worn during community gatherings, ritual occasions, or as markers of cultural identity. The decorative elements suggest that the piece served not merely as practical headwear but also as an expression of status, artistry, and communal heritage.

Now displaying the rich surface wear and authentic aging sought by collectors, this hat possesses an appealing sculptural quality. The softened fibers, gentle irregularities, and preserved embellishments speak to a lifetime of use within a traditional Dayak environment.

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Price include shipping worldwide by DHL.

(Stand not included in this listing)