Signifier, signified, and sign: a case study of Naga ancestral remains at Pitt rivers museum

Abstract

This chapter delves into the intricate relationship between cultural artifacts, indigenous heritage, and museum representation, focusing on Naga ancestral remains at the Pitt Rivers Museum. The framework centers on the “signifier,” “signified,” and “sign” triad, wherein physical objects (signifiers) convey cognitive concepts (signified) within a cultural context. Naga ancestral remains, a colonial-era acquisition, are integral to the museum’s collection. The authors contend that the static display of these artifacts, particularly skulls and trophy heads for centuries, perpetuated a stereotypical and one-dimensional representation of the Nagas as “headhunters.” They argue for a more nuanced approach that considers the broader socio-cultural attributes and meanings of these artifacts within the Naga knowledge system. The authors emphasize the need for contextualized representations that go beyond colonial interpretations, inviting a reimagining of museum displays and narratives. Ethical concerns over possession and display prompt a call for co-curation with Naga involvement, highlighting repatriation and community engagement. They stress contextualized representation beyond colonial lenses, proposing mobile exhibits, scholarly collaboration, and databases for community empowerment. Ultimately, the paper calls for restorative justice and a holistic understanding of the Naga cultural landscape, where the “signified” and “sign” of their heritage are reclaimed and redefined through collaboration, repatriation, and community engagement.