Aso Guardian Figure
Dayak, Borneo, Indonesia
19th century or before
Provenance: French collection, acquired from Alain Schoffel in the 1980’s
The Aso is one of the most important symbols in Dayak Culture. It’s a composite mythological beast, part dog and dragon. It acts as a guardian figure, protecting the Dayak from malevolent spirits. This particular example was most likely protecting the stored contents inside of a sacred cave. It’s carved from a lightweight wood, and has a subtle, weathered surface typical of pieces found in sacred caves.
Aso Guardian Figure
Dayak, Borneo, Indonesia
19th century or before
Provenance: French collection, acquired from Alain Schoffel in the 1980’s
The Aso is one of the most important symbols in Dayak Culture. It’s a composite mythological beast, part dog and dragon. It acts as a guardian figure, protecting the Dayak from malevolent spirits. This particular example was most likely protecting the stored contents inside of a sacred cave. It’s carved from a lightweight wood, and has a subtle, weathered surface typical of pieces found in sacred caves.