Panel Hat

Artist: Unkown

Culture/People: Dayak

Place: Southeast Asia

Media: Beads and plant fiber

Dims: 23.5 in. Diameter (59.69 cm)

Date: Early 20th c.

Description: This beaded sun hat panel is intriciately decorated with European trade beads set on pineapple leaf fiber. The design consists of intertwined Aso or dog/dragon motif possibly symbolizing protection or ancestral guardianship. As with baby carriers from Borneo, these beaded circular panels also are believed to have protective elements and differentiate ones social rank. — Ralph T. Coe, c. 2000.

RTC No: AS0083
Gift of Ralph T. Coe, 2011