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Two Kayan wrestlers of Borneo, SE Asia
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Two Kayan wrestlers of Borneo, SE Asia
Two Kayan wrestlers of Borneo, SE Asia (then part of the British Empire) - a popular sport with the older boys and men of the tribe.
1922
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Media ID 23081668
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Borneo Kayan Today Wrestler Wrestlers Wrestling 1922 Racial
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph captures the intensity and tradition of a Kayan wrestling match in Borneo during the 1920s, when the region was still part of the British Empire. Kayan wrestling was a popular sport among the older boys and men of the tribe, providing both entertainment and a means of testing strength and agility. The Kayan people, also known as the 'Long Neck Karen,' are an ethnic group native to the mountains and forests of northern Myanmar and southern China, with a significant population in eastern Borneo. They are renowned for their distinctive traditional dress, which includes brass coils worn around the neck and legs, giving the appearance of elongated necks and legs. In this image, two Kayan wrestlers prepare for their match, each wearing minimal clothing and adorned with traditional body paint. The wrestling pit, made of packed earth and covered with palm leaves, is the setting for their fierce competition. The wrestlers' focused expressions and tense bodies convey the physical and mental preparation required for the contest. This photograph offers a rare glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Kayan people and the traditions that have shaped their community for generations. The 1920s were a time of significant change in Borneo, with the encroachment of European colonial powers and the introduction of modern influences. Yet, the Kayan people continued to practice their traditional sports and customs, preserving their unique identity in the face of external pressures. Today, their traditions continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, serving as a reminder of the diverse and fascinating cultural tapestry of Asia and beyond.
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