Head Hunters Chest Ornament
Konyak, Nagaland, India
Early 20th c
Provenance: Old American collection
Head Hunting was a vital part of the Naga cultural system. The taking of heads, ensured the vital force of the village through captured energy from an enemy’s severed head. These rare wooden heads were only worn by a warrior who had taken a head; indeed, the realism of these pendants is reminiscent of a death mask.
Head Hunters Chest Ornament
Konyak, Nagaland, India
Early 20th c
Provenance: Old American collection
Head Hunting was a vital part of the Naga cultural system. The taking of heads, ensured the vital force of the village through captured energy from an enemy’s severed head. These rare wooden heads were only worn by a warrior who had taken a head; indeed, the realism of these pendants is reminiscent of a death mask.