DAYAK'S HANDICRAFT

As a biggest ethnic in Borneo, Dayak also has a lot of unique handicrafts and have a lot of function, for example Shield which is a tool to defense from enemy's attack. However, every single handicraft also have a long story and used for a long time. In this writing, i want to show you some of the the traditional handicraft from Dayak.

 

Shield/Kelembit
It is a tool to repel enemy's attack in a battle. The shield is made of wood so that it is light and not easily breakable. In front of the shield there are ornaments, however nowadays the ornament is composed with painting of white and red or white or black color. There are 3 basic motives for decorating the shield: 

1. Motif of Enggang Bird (Kalung Tebengaang) 
2. Motif of Dragon/Dog (Kalung Aso') 
3. Motif of Mask (Kalung Udo') 

Besides as protector from enemy?s attach, the shield also functions as: 

1. protection from fire  
2. War dance equipment  
3. Tool for break up a fight 
4. Equipment for Belian ceremony

Nowadays, shield is sold as souvenir / house decoration. 


Bening Aban 
It is an equipment for carrying children of which only existed in Dayak Kenyah tribe. It is made of wood which is usually decorated by ornaments or covered with beads embroidery and also coins.

Sumpitan (blowpipe)

It is a hunting tool or also used for battle which is very famous in all Dayak Tribe in Borneo. This equipment is made of ulin wood or a kind of that which is long in shape and is given a small hole to insert the missile. Sumpitan is equipped with a spearhead tied in its edge and is also equipped with its missile and the container (selup).

Seraung
It is a wide-edged hat which is usually used for working in the farmland to protect from sunlight and rain. Nowadays it is created in small size for house decoration.

Mandau (Dayak Sword)

It is a special traditional weapon of Dayak tribe which similar to sword. Mandau is made of iron with wooden or bone handle. Before making mandau, there is custom ceremony according to each tradition of Dayak Tribe.