Adult male war dance costume
Artist
Charles Warusam
(1946-2008)
Date1997
Object number00031000
NameHeaddress
MediumCassowary feathers, leather, wood, paint, reeds, string
DimensionsOverall: 510 x 780 x 70 x 210 mm, 0.35 kg
Display Dimensions: 510 x 780 x 70 mm
Display Dimensions: 510 x 780 x 70 mm
ClassificationsCeremonial artefact
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionCassowary feather headdress made by Charles Warusam for a Waia family adult male war dance costume.
Made of cassowary feathers, leather, wood, paint, reeds and stringHistoryDance and language are important cultural markers in the Torres Strait. Proficiency in both is highly regarded, but some dance is the most visible expression of islander culture and the artefacts associated with dance dominate the material culture of the Torres Strait.
Dancing transcends everyday life concerns. Creation spirits tied to particular geographical locations transmit knowledge of the land and sea through their songs and dances. By performing these dances, the time between past and present is closed for those who own the dance.
The diversity of lifestyles in Torres Strait Islanders is reflected in different styles of performance art between islands, men and women. Although the performances occur in the context of entertainment, it is considered a serious activity, offering prestige and standing in the community to those who excel. Competition between the islands is fierce and big dance festivals occur where different communities meet and perform their dances over tow or three days. Everyone, including children have the chance to perform and compete.
SignificanceTorres Strait Islanders have always taken pride in dance performances and it remains the strength of their contemporary culture. From island to island the dance and its artefacts vary but everywhere dance has a broad cultural and social significance as an integral part part of ritual, religion and warfare. Saibai Islanders are considered some of the best dancers. Their costumes are suede at dance festivals, funerals and official occasions and during Saibai Island's fight for recognition of land and sea rights.
The Saibai Islanders are proud of their warrior past and use this dance to express their belief that they are the upholders of traditional life in the Torres Strait.
