Based on my time working in Borneo from 2004 until today. Tools that are used daily, are usually built strong and neat, even though in most cases aren't fancy (sophisticated complex rattan braid and carving). I guess your items, came from someone who was visiting Borneo for a relatively short time, she/he may be asked something memorable. Since to have neat braiding and nice carving will take a relatively long time. That's why the ambang (i guess it falls to ambang instead of Mandau) and the blowpipe in very crude quality of rattan braiding, but i am sure it will work well but may not last long. Tourist items usually are carved with various degrees of quality.
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Originally Posted by tool_of_a_took
Hey guys, I recently got these for super cheap in an auction so I’m not expecting them to be anything special. As they don’t seem particularly old I’m assuming they’re tourist pieces. The only reason I’m not 100% sure is because they’re quite plain and I’d expect tourist pieces to be somewhat more decorative. Could these have been made recently for another reason or are they simple tourist pieces?
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