Details of Koewbuw Dhoeri

Catalog Number : 26509
Size : 63cm x 70cm
Medium : Mixed Media
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The Torres Strait Islander headdress is known as Dhoeri (Western Island language) and Dhari (Eastern Island language). It varies from island to island in its size and form. This piece is an example of the Western Island style of Badu and Mabuiag Island.

Originally the dhoeri was worn during tribal war. The more elaborate the dhoeri, the higher you were in rank. When a dhoeri was seen on, it meant death was near. These days the dhoeri is only worn by dancers at ceremonial occasions. The dancers interpret the stories by mimicking the events that happened during tribal wars and sacred ceremonies.

When performing the dancers shake their heads, this is to capture the audience's attention and keep them alert. The markings on the dhoeri indicates the clan/cluster of the dancer. Formerly, the headdress was made only from certain types of bird feathers but nowadays, a wide range is being used.