Pagar Figure

Batak tribe, Sumatra, Indonesia
Early 20th century

Provenance: Old Dutch collection

Pagar figures defended against evil spirits. Instilled with apotropaic powers, these figures contained the souls of people who died. Honored with offerings and incarnations, these figures could be used as communication with the ancestors. This example’s elongated face, open mouth with fierce expression, elongated stylized earlobes and sculpted chest are typical of Batak sculptural traditions. The torso is compact, with arms and legs carved into the block of wood. The hands are clasped at the waist by the female’s sex. The figure’s dark encrusted surface enhances its powerful presence.

Handle from Betel Nut Crusher

Bali, Indonesia
19th-Early 20th century

Previous collection: Jacques Kerchache collection, Paris

This beautiful Balinese handle is carved from wood and possesses an incredibly worn patina from generations of handling. The figure is curled into an almost fetal-like position holding his hands to his legs; this is done with fascinating precision. Objects of this quality would only be owned by important society members. In excellent condition

Awl Handle

Dayak tribe, Borneo, Indonesia
Early 20th century

Published: “Borneo and Beyond”, 1990, pg.60.

Carved in the form of an Aso; one of the most important protective mythological creatures in Dayak culture.  This example flows beautifully with its “S” like shape.  While many Aso figures are depicted in an aggressive fashion, this example almost appears serene. The creature’s head is titled up towards its body, creating a lyrical energy.

Adu fombali, Figures

Nias, Indonesia
19th century

Provenance:
Collected by Heinrich Sundermann, Protestant Missionary part of the Rheinischen Missionsgesellschaft, 1875-1890 on the island of Nias, Indonesia. Related example: “ Nias Tribal Treasures”, Figure 117.

This series of figures, is a very rare protective object from the island of Nias. Collected in situ by Sundermann while at the Rheinischen Mission sometime between 1875-1890, I have never seen one for sale until recently.   Bound by a rattan fiber on a horizontal bamboo stalk, the object is made up of a row of rectangular figures with anthropomorphic faces. Each one slightly differs in size, but the notched facial features are similar. Offerings would have been made to this piece in case of supernatural assault in order to appease vengeful spirits.

Length: 6 in / 15.2 cm