The square helmet made by the synthetic Abor tribe of Arunachal Pradesh serves as an excellent model of indigenous armor making with the utilization of natural materials. The helmet is made from a single piece of leather, carefully shaped into a square so as to impart adequate protection to the head. The making includes stitching two ends and sides of the leather with split cane strips- an indication of the resourcefulness and workmanship of the tribe.
In contrast to highly decorative tribal helmets made of canes, often adorned with tusks or feathers, this helmet is useful, not ornamental; it is supposed to have been the protection used in safeguarding its wearer from damage during hunting excursions or tribal conflict. Leather being strong would serve well with flexibility; good to use in this case. The use of animal hide and cane, materials properly available in the area, brings light to the sustainable lifestyle practiced by the community while penetrating deeply into the environment.