TATTOO STAMP
B O R N E O
KAYAN TATTOO STAMP
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19th-early 20th century
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Borneo
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Kayanic peoples
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Wood, traces of lampblack ink, fibrous material
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8.89 cm (3.5 in) x 6.35 cm (2.5 in)
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Collected in Indonesia in the 1970s
An inking block for a traditional Kayan tattoo.
The stamping block side depicts the merging of two mythical animals. Kayan, Kenyah, and Iban tattoos recorded both someone's accomplishments and, in the case of the former, one's social status.
While this mysterious stamp displays a familiar tattoo motif, its reverse is uncommonly decorated with the animated face of a spirit. Normally, tattoo stamps from this region only possess a small nib or handle on the reverse. This personalization transforms a utilitarian item into a diminutive yet an iconic testament to the art form of tattooing.
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