Katapu
| Katapu | |
|---|---|
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| Information | |
| Weapon type: | helmet |
| Designations: | Katapu, Kalapu |
| Use: | weapon |
| Region of origin / author: |
Indonesia , ethnic groups from Indonesia |
| Distribution: | Indonesia |
| Particularities: | Many versions |
| Lists on the subject | |
The Katapu also Kalapu is a helmet from Indonesia.
description
The katapu is made of naturally found materials. There are different versions that are common all over Indonesia. The katapu is only worn in war. It is woven from thick rattan strands that are split lengthways in the middle. It has a sturdy inner helmet that offers very good protection against sword blows. The helmet is often reinforced with other materials. Metal plates , large fish scales , armadillo scales , bear skin , monkey skin or the skins of other animals are used for this purpose. Also, various materials are used for decoration such as wattle , poultry feathers , claws , beaks , head of hornbills , human hair , hair from other creatures, shells , teeth of bears and panthers et cetera. The decorations on the helmets are often designed in the shape of a monster's head . The edge of the helmet can be edged with metal strips or wrapped with red flannel . The shells of the Nassa mussel are also used. Decorations with the feathers of the hornbill are intended for warriors who have already fought in war and serve as a symbol of their status. The feathers can represent the number of enemies killed . The Katapu helmets not only protect against injuries, but also serve as a martial expression on the battlefield . The katapu is used by ethnic groups in Indonesia.
gallery
Katapu rattan set with a hornbill skulls
Katapu made of rattan, set with fish scales
Katapu made of rattan, covered with animal fur
Katapu made of rattan, set with armadillo scales
Katapu made of rattan, set with feathers and bird claws
literature
- George Cameron Stone : A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration and Use of Arms and Armor in All Countries and in All Times. With an Introduction by Donald J. LaRocca. Courier Dover Publications, Mineola NY 1999, ISBN 0-486-40726-8 , p. 341.
Individual evidence
- ^ Albert G. van Zonneveld: Traditional weapons of the Indonesian archipelago. Zwartenkot Art Books, Leiden 2001, ISBN 90-5450-004-2 , p. 61.
