Head Hunting Charm

Naga, Indian Highlands, India
19th Century


This macabre diminutive wooden charm in the form of a human head is proof positive that a member of the clan has not only murdered, but has literally taken a head.  Charms such as these are worn around the neck of male headhunters in Nagaland.  They are revered; the more charms or heads you have the more important you are.  This example is superbly rendered with a fierce expression, finely carved ears and a mouth aggressively exposing its teeth. This charm has an excellent patina from handling and the holes on the top of the charm are irregular and worn; consistent with early examples.

This amulet stands 2.25 inches in height.

SOLD / IN 10-15-10