Woman’s Ceremonial Jacket, West Kalimantan, Borneo

Worn  exclusively by high born  Iban or Maloh women from ruling families , the design of this intricately beaded jacket, known as sapé manik, displays exceptional color vibrancy and beautifully rendered compositional lines.  

The patterning, derived from a complex of prestigious motifs including Indian tradecloth, and the luxurious abundance of beads conveys notions of prosperity and fertility.

Trade cotton, imported glass beads sequins, buttons 

Early 20th century (circa 1920s)

19.25” high x c wide    49 x 39 cm    Offered on a custom made wood  stand.