Armor vest or cuirass
Tin (Western Dani) or Kabasi (Moni), Baliem Valley, West Papua
Orchid fiber (Dendrobiinae), rattan fiber, bird feathers
20" (51 cm) high
Early to mid-20th century
Ex. Old Dutch collection formed in the 1960s

This armor vest was worn as protection by Dani tribesmen, very tightly woven to prevent the penetration of arrows and spears. The cylindrical, stiff lower portion of the vest is made of rattan, while the more supple upper part is made from string, with both areas incorporating yellow orchid fiber for strength and color. It possesses a beautiful patina and the remnants of a decorative bit of feathers on the front center.
See similar: http://art.famsf.org/cuirass-tin-western-dani-or-kabasi-moni-20074486
#3256

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