This skirt comes from the Maloh people in West Kalimantan, Borneo. Shell appliqué decorations run along its beaded panel, which depicts yellow human figures representing ancestor spirits. Beads are considered rare commodities. Garments sewn with beads are thought to have increased ritual and protective qualities. It is believed that during the harvest ceremonies if more beads were displayed on textiles, they will bring more bountiful harvests.
