NAGA HEADHUNTER BEADED HIP ORNAMENT--Early Example Italian White Heart Beads and RARE Hanging Panels Start Price USD 275.00 Current Price USD 340.50 Time Left - Bid Count 4 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Friday, July 04, 2008 End Time Friday, July 11, 2008 Location Tucson, AZ See more about 'NAGA HEADHUNTER BEADED HIP ORNAMENT--Early Example' Description For headhunting raids, Naga warriors decorated themselves with beautiful, beaded leggings to make them appear more fearsome.  This pair, field collected in 2001, comprises Italian white heart beads, orchid fiber, and dyed goat hair pendants. Leggings of this type have been made in more recent times, but, after careful study, we believe the craftsmanship and the materials indicate a significantly early date.  The use of dark pumpkin-colored beads, a heavy patina on the bone spacers, and goat hair pendants with darkening at the tips, loss, and native repairs are typical of 19th and early 20th century examples.  The cord connecting the panels also has some bead loss, evidence of extensive tribal use.  One example in Julian Jacobs' book The Nagas is quite similar to this pair.  Discerning collectors will appreciate the difference between this scarce set of leggings and many others on the market, from later examples to modern reproductions.  These are medium in size, with panels (including goat hair pendants) over 32 centimeters long and 5 centimeters wide.  PLEASE NOTE THAT THE ORANGE PANELS AT THE TOP ARE AN ADDITIONAL SECOND LAYER, AN UNUSUAL FEATURE ON THE NAGA LEGGINGS.  As with all of our listings, we unconditionally guarantee authenticity.  Good luck bidding! Place a Bid!