One can find in this Leather Belt of the Konyak Naga tribe a marvelous representative of tribal symbolism and artistry. This double-layered leather belt is studded with eight rectangular bone pieces carved with intricate human faces, possibly representing ancestors or spirits of the warriors. These symbolic motifs clearly signify the headhunting tradition and the deep spiritual belief system of the Konyak tribe.
The center of the belt has an elongated wooden bird-like figure, presumably a spirit or ancestral emblem for protection or vision or tribal totems. This bird figure serves as both the visual and symbolic anchor to the composition of the belt. Fastened onto the belt are the bone pieces, with cane strips that demonstrate indigenous weaving skills and eye toward durability. Cane loop and bamboo stick fasten the ends of the belt, an indication of the practical and ritualistic duality of the object. The belt would have therefore served as a status symbol worn during rituals, dances, or warfare by tribal warriors or chieftains.