Ancestor with Hornbill Beaded Ritual Mat

This beadwork showcases an intricate composition of human figures and burung enggang (hornbill) motifs — two central symbols in Dayak Kanayatn cosmology. In Dayak Kanayatn culture, the hornbill (burung enggang) is considered a sacred creature, revered for its loyalty and protective nature. It symbolizes faithfulness, as hornbills are known to mate for life and guard one another until death. The bird is also believed to embody the spirit of ancestral warriors, serving as a guardian figure that protects the people and ensures harmony between the physical and spiritual worlds.Beadwork holds a central place in Dayak culture. Historically, beads were valuable trade items, exchanged with Chinese and Indian merchants, and often served as family heirlooms or symbols of wealth.

Dayak Kanayatn Tribe
Origin: East Borneo
Material: Colored Glass Beads
Dimension: 85 x 49 cm