Picking Awl Apo-Kayan, East Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia 19th century Carved wood, bone, metal Handle: 5.25 in :: 13.3 cm, total: 7.75 in :: 19.7 cm This fine picking awl was used for weaving threads, beading, and matting to insure a tightly uniformed product. The Aso with tendrils exemplifies the early curvilinear style for which Borneo is particularly famed and highly desirable. Collected by Jean Demmeni on Nieuwenhuis’ third journey to Borneo in 1899. Demmeni (1866 – 1939) was a well-known photographer, amateur painter, and draughtsman, who travelled all over the Archipelago. His extensive photographic achievement is an important documentation of Indonesia in the first quarter of this century (Haks & Maris, p.70).” Price on request
