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The Arts of Island SE Asia

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Home > Sumba > Young Woman’s Comb (Hai Kara Jangya)
  • Sumba girl wearing a hai kara Jangya. Photo: Susan Rodgers.

Young Woman’s Comb (Hai Kara Jangya)

East Sumba

Turtle shell

19th-early 20th century

The tribes of Sumba are noted for elaborate combs made from turtle shells. Young women wear these combs announcing they have reached puberty. Most combs feature a skull tree (andung) flanked by animals such as deers, lions and roosters. This rare example also incorporate a human figure at the center.

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