Shawl
Body scarves with patterns embroidered from cowries were worn by men from the Khiamniungan, Sema, Sangtam and Chang-Naga tribes. The abstract figure depicted a slain enemy, while the circles, depending on the tribe, indicated captured heads or burnt villages or parts of villages. Today, such a body scarf is reserved for respected members of cultural associations who wear it at traditional festivals.
Body scarves with patterns embroidered from cowries were worn by men from the Khiamniungan, Sema, Sangtam and Chang-Naga tribes. The abstract figure depicted a slain enemy, while the circles, depending on the tribe, indicated captured heads or burnt villages or parts of villages. Today, such a body scarf is reserved for respected members of cultural associations who wear it at traditional festivals.
Collector:
Christoph von Fürer-Haimendorf (1909 Wien - 1995 London) DNB
Acquired by:
Galerie Benedikt, Mödling
Object Name
Körpertuch
Culture
Nagaland
Material/technology:
cotton, cowri shell
Copyright
Weltmuseum Wien
Collection area
South Asia, Southeast Asia, Himalayas
Geography
Südasien/Subkontinent/Indien/Nagaland
Invs.
178076
