DAYAK KAYAN, West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Wood, shells, rattan, dark patina. Baby carrier decorated with three figures in high relief, with heart-shaped faces, whose bodies with tiny limbs mingle with the spiralling bodies of stylised animals. The mouths are prognathic with pointed teeth and the eyes are accentuated by large conus discs. This elaborately decorated baby carrier is a masterpiece of Dayak art, indicating the family's social status. For the Dayak, this decoration served to keep benevolent spirits close to the baby. Height: 33 cm. Width: 38 cm. Slightly missing. Provenance: Collected in situ in 1975 by Jacques Cortecero on the Mahakam River.