Malaysian, Kadazan Hat
Mid 20th century
A rattan hat from Malaysia called Siung Papar, made in the district of Papar by the Kadazan people and currently, there are only three known makers left. The oldest is over 90s years old. Highly decorative and beautifully woven. A work of art.
Cataloguing
Of conical shape and made from woven rattan, with three decorative panels using black and red dyed rattan, between three upright ribs caught down by black rattan, culminating with three loops to the pointed crown and red circular decoration, the lower edge intricately woven, the inside with two ochre cotton ties.
Condition
You will be able to see the knop on the top is slightly crooked, but probably with steaming could be re-aligned. The very edge band needs a stitch or two. The inside ochre cotton ties are well worn.
Comments
My thanks to Jesse Joy for the information. Jesse is writing a booklet on sun hats made by the indigenous peoples of Sabah.
Price: on request
Ref N°: 9207