Stopper from Magic Container
Batak, Sumatra, Indonesia
19th-Early 20th c.
Provenance: Jose Manuel Ferrater Lambarri, Barcelona
Published: “Ancestors Dels Mars Del Sud”, 2007, pg.95. “Assemblage”, Bruce Frank Primitive Art, 2014, fig. 18
The Magical Container was one of the most important pieces of equipment in a Batak priest’s milieu. The container is made of buffalo horn, while the stopper is carved out of wood. Archaic in style, this wooden stopper features a human figure riding atop a Singa. The figure exhibits an austere presence with angular features and composed posture. This stopper skillfully portrays a stylized Singa and rider, often associated with magical substances in Batak symbolism. Evidence of extensive use is apparent in the wear on the figure and around the extension at the back, designed to fit snugly into the horn. These signs attest to the significant role this stopper played over many generations.
Stopper from Magic Container
Batak, Sumatra, Indonesia
19th-Early 20th c.
Provenance: Jose Manuel Ferrater Lambarri, Barcelona
Published: “Ancestors Dels Mars Del Sud”, 2007, pg.95. “Assemblage”, Bruce Frank Primitive Art, 2014, fig. 18
The Magical Container was one of the most important pieces of equipment in a Batak priest’s milieu. The container is made of buffalo horn, while the stopper is carved out of wood. Archaic in style, this wooden stopper features a human figure riding atop a Singa. The figure exhibits an austere presence with angular features and composed posture. This stopper skillfully portrays a stylized Singa and rider, often associated with magical substances in Batak symbolism. Evidence of extensive use is apparent in the wear on the figure and around the extension at the back, designed to fit snugly into the horn. These signs attest to the significant role this stopper played over many generations.