Indonesian Ethnic and Tribal Art Collection
A Unique Collection of Old, Rare and Beautiful Sacred, Ceremonial and Ritual Artefacts for Sale
TIMOR
Old Wooden Timorese Female Ancestor Figure (27cm/10.5 inches)
A superbly carved nude female ancestor or guardian standing figure collected in Timor in the 1980s. She stands solidly rooted to the ground, with a wonderful expression and an almost monumental presence that belies her size...a really special piece! Carved in hardwood it has a nice patina of use and age (Circa 19th Century).
PRICE: £500.00 (US$800)
BALI
Old Balinese Kepeng Temple Decoration (105x40cm/41x16 inches)
This lovely old Balinese mirrored Temple Hanging is made almost entirely of old Chinese kepeng coins bound together with thread. It would have been used to decorate a village temple or shrine on ceremonial occasions. The coins are made of bronze and inscribed on both sides. They have a diameter of about 2.5cm and a 5mm square hole in the centre. Chinese kepeng coins were circulating in Bali in the 8th century and were once an everyday currency among the Balinese, but nowadays they are used almost exclusively as ritual offerings on important ceremonial occasions such as birthdays, weddings and cremations. Circa: first half of the 20th Century.
PRICE: £245.00 (US$404)
BALI
Balinese Raksasa Kris Hilt (9cm/3.5 inches)
An old Balinese ceremonial kris or keris hilt in the form of a Raksasa demon holding a raised club behind his back. Carved in wood, it was purchased in the early 1990s from a private collection in Bali.
PRICE: £125.00 (US$206) SOLD
BALI
Balinese Rice Goddess Dewi Sri Kris Hilt (11.5cm/4.5 inches)
An old Balinese ceremonial kris or keris hilt of the revered fertility and rice goddess Dewi Sri holding her hands together in prayer. Carved in wood, it was purchased in the early 1990s from a private collection in Bali.
PRICE: £105.00 (US$173)
LETI
Male and Female Corn-Eating Guardian Figures
(21x11x7cm/8x4.5x3 inches)
An interesting and unusual pair of stylized male and female guardian figures sitting on their haunches and eating maize (corn on the cob). It’s very rare to find carvings or images of people eating food. These figures are virtually identical save for the addition of a carved penis on one of them. They are carved in a beautifully-grained and polished hardwood that has acquired a rich golden brown colour and patina over the years. These charming little figures display very well, and look particularly good from above as their heads are tilted back with their eyes gazing upwards. They were purchased from a dealer in Indonesia and have been in our private collection for almost 25 years. They are in almost perfect condition and are thought to have come from the island of Leti.
PRICE: Offers Invited
SUMATRA
A ceremonial Batak Stone Head and Container from Sumatra (30x20cm/12x8 inches).
Superbly carved in two pieces from heavy black volcanic stone, the top half lifts off to reveal a large interior storage space. Both halves have been skilfully hollowed out in equal measure. Its age and purpose is unknown but it is likely that some sacred or magical items were stored within and brought out on special ceremonial occasions. The aristocratic- looking features and the abundant detail in the crown-like headdress suggests that this carving represents a king or ancestral nobleman. The crown is particularly interesting. The central feature is a bearded cat whose elongated body forms the handle with which to remove the top. A smaller crouching cat-like figure can be seen beneath its beard. To either side of the crown, and much larger, are a pair of human figures with features and crowns reminiscent of the head below. Both of these figures recline in a foetal position. It is quite possible that this remarkable carving featured in some type of burial or afterlife ceremony. It was acquired in 1990 on the volcanic island of Palau Samosir on Lake Toba, Sumatra. It is incredibly heavy for its size (7.25 kg) and in excellent condition.
PRICE: £520.00 (US$830)
FLORES
Antique Gold Mamuli Earrings from the Lio or Sikka People, Flores, Indonesia (Circa 1900)
A rare pair of heavy gold Mamuli earrings from the Indonesian Island of Flores. These handmade earrings measure 4 x 3.5 cm excluding the wires, and are solid 9k gold with a weight of 23.8 grams. They were made in the late 19th or early 20th century and were purchased in the 1990s from a private museum in Bali. They are in excellent used condition commensurate with their age.
Manuli are worn as ritual jewellery in Eastern Indonesia where they are considered potent symbols of wealth and status across the region. Gold mamuli are often preserved as sacred ritual clan treasures, while other simpler mamuli are exchanged between families as bride price payments. Metals such as silver and gold, melted and cast from foreign coins, are classified as ‘masculine’ and ‘hot’ in the world-view of eastern Indonesian cultures. Conversely, the open shape of the mamuli is similar to the female reproductive organ, while the shape of the space between is penis-like. Thus mamuli combine both masculine and feminine attributes and are known as symbols of fertility.
Price £500.00 (US$800)
Male and Female Seated Guardian Figures with Underworld Crocodiles
(35x11x6cm/13.75x4.25x2.5 inches)
A remarkable pair of stylized male and female seated guardian figures each with their hands together and with underworld or after-life crocodiles on their shoulders. The figures are virtually identical apart from the genitals which are carved in bone or possibly ivory (their eyes are also inset with the same material). The craftsmanship is simply superb, with wonderful attention to form and detail. The figures have interesting profiles and display well as a pair. However, with their stylized form and crocodiles they look great from just about any angle. They are carved in a beautifully-grained and polished hardwood that has acquired a rich golden brown colour and patina over the years. These remarkable figures are in perfect condition. They were purchased in Indonesia and have been in our private collection for almost 25 years. They are believed to have come from the island of Leti.
PRICE: Offers Invited
TIMOR
Shaman Mask (26x19x10cm/10x7.5x4 inches)
A superb old Shaman Mask from Timor, with a strong three-dimensional sculptural form, and interesting features including carved teeth, lips and ears. It has a scary and powerful presence, and there is clear evidence of ceremonial or ritual usage...possibly including machete slashes to the forehead, one of which has taken a thin slice out, although not to the detriment of the piece. The precise age is unknown but probably 19th Century. Carved from a dense hardwood, and partly smoke-blackened, it has a lovely old patina and is in excellent condition.
PRICE: £700.00 (US$1,155)
LOMBOK
Sasak Buffalo Horn Female Figure – Lombok (17cm/7 inches)
This Sasak standing nude female figure contains a small storage space within, and is carved in two pieces from water buffalo horn. Its precise function is unknown but it is likely that it had some magical purpose relating to fertility or ancestry.
PRICE: £120.00 (US$198)
TIMOR
Old Bamboo Lime Container from Timor (18x5cm/7x2 inches)
A beautifully decorated Timorese bamboo container used for storing lime powder. The lime is mixed with leaves and betal nuts to produce a mild stimulant, and bamboo containers are an essential part of the betal-chewing kit. Traditional Timorese men usually carve their own storage containers and each is therefore a unique creation. This one has been very finely incised with a classic geometric motif that makes it instantly recognizable as Timorese. It has a really old and used feel to it, and a lovely golden patina.
PRICE: £45.00 (US$74)
TIMOR
Old Wooden Timorese Male Ancestor Figure (25cm/10.5 inches)
A superbly carved nude male ancestor or guardian figure collected in Timor in the 1980s. Full of character, he sits holding his hands together at his chest. This is a wonderfully expressive and sculptural ancestor figure that looks interesting from any angle...a very special piece! Carved in hardwood it has a lovely aged patina and a really used look and feel (Circa 19th Century).
PRICE: £225.00 (US$371)
BALI
Old Balinese Architectural Relief Carving of the Goddess Saraswati and Swan (77x26x2cm/30x10 inches)
Old Balinese architectural panels are extremely hard to come by as they were originally exposed to the elements and few have survived the ravages of a tropical climate. They were made by master-carvers to decorate the walls and screens of village temples, regional palaces and other important buildings. Mostly they feature traditional floral motifs, but this one is particularly nice as it portrays the popular and much-loved Goddess Saraswati and her vehicle, the swan. Saraswati is the Hindu Goddess of knowledge, music and the arts. She is the consort of Brahma and considered to be the ‘Mother of the Vedas’. This panel, which is in perfect condition, is probably carved in local albesia wood and was originally brightly painted, but the colours have faded and weathered over time to form a subtle and very beautiful surface patina. It is one of two architectural panels collected in Bali in the late 80s.
PRICE: £1,500 (US$2,475)
TIMOR
Timorese Male Ancestor Figure (8.5cm/3.5 inches)
A small male ancestor or guardian figure sitting on his haunches, elbows on knees, with his hands clasping his head. The compact simplicity of this figure is both its charm and its strength. Carved in hardwood with a nice patina, it was collected in Timor in the 1980s and probably dates from the 1950s or before.
PRICE: £95.00 (US$157)
TIMOR
Timor Female Ancestor Figure(21cm/8.5 inches)
A standing nude female ancestor or guardian standing figure collected in Timor in the 1980s. Carved in hardwood it has a nice patina and is in excellent condition.
PRICE: £140.00 (US$231)
TIMOR
An old Timor Cotton Gin with 20 Guardian Figures
This extraordinary and intricately carved Cotton Gin (mangle) features no less than 20 ancestor or guardian figures, and is in perfect working order. Cotton gins are used to deseed the cotton bolls prior to processing for spinning and weaving. A small plank is put across the bottom support which the operator sits on to steady the gin during use.
Both sides of the cotton gin are identically carved. The two main supports have traditional diamond motifs on their sides, and terminate with the inward-facing head and shoulders of a guardian figure. Four small seated figures each measuring 6.5cm/2.5 inches have been carved down both edges of the roller support posts, while the handle features two more, one on each side. The two panels above the roller are carved with a geometrical diamond motif.
Originally from the central highlands of Timor this cotton gin was purchased in Sumba in the late 1980s. It is a fascinating object, in near perfect condition, and an excellent example of traditional Timorese craftsmanship (30hx43wx8cm/12x17x3 inches).
PRICE: £600 (US$990)
TIMOR
Old Timor Mask with Tribal Tattoo (29x24cm/11.5x9.5 inches)
A superb fine quality old mask from Timor with portrait-like features and tribal headdress or tattoo-like markings on the forehead. Believed to be 19th Century, it is very well carved in a dense hardwood. It has a nice black and brown patina of age and use, and is in excellent condition.
PRICE: £700.00 (US$1,155)
BALI
Old Balinese Architectural Relief Carving of Wayang Tualen (100cm x 25cm x 3cm)
Old Balinese architectural panels are extremely hard to come by as they were originally exposed to the elements and few have survived the ravages of a tropical climate. They were made by master-carvers to decorate the walls and screens of village temples, regional palaces and other important buildings. Mostly they feature traditional floral motifs, but this one depicts the popular shadow puppet Tualen, one of the two the comic attendants to the virtuous party in the wayang kulit stories of Bali and Java. The panel is in excellent condition apart from a small (old) split near the base and a few minor scuffs low down. It is probably carved in local albesia wood and originally brightly painted, but the colours have faded and weathered with age to form a subtle and very beautiful surface patina. It is one of two collected in Bali in the late 80s.
PRICE: £655.00 (US$1,080)
SUMBA
Sumba Male Ancestor Figure (14cm/5.5 inches)
A male ancestor or guardian figure from Sumba. He sits with both hands between his legs and holding his penis. Collected in Sumba in the late 1980s, it is carved in hardwood, with a lovely patina of age and use, and in excellent condition.
PRICE: £125.00 (US$206)
TIMOR
Timor Female Fertility or Ancestor Figure (20cm/8 inches)
A curvaceous nude female fertility or ancestor figure standing with her hands resting together on her belly. This gesture, together with the full breasts and prominent pubic region, suggests that she may have been associated with fertility. Carved in hardwood, there is a small ancient chip on the forehead, but otherwise this beautiful and sensual figure is in excellent condition, with a lovely patina of age and use. It was collected in Timor in the 1980s.
PRICE: £175.00
BALI
Bamboo Fisherman’s or Frog-Catcher’s Basket - Bali
This early 20th century Bamboo Fisherman’s or Frog-Catcher’s Basket came from a private museum and gallery in Bali, where it remained on display until the late 1980s when the elderly owner decided to sell part of the collection.
The basket is beautifully constructed from woven bamboo on a rectangular base. The lid is made from a piece of coconut shell with a hole cut into it for the insertion of small fish or frogs from the rice paddy fields. The basket has a dark brown patina from age and use, and is in excellent condition (18x18x14cm/7x7x5.5 inches).
PRICE: £75.00 (US$124) SOLD
BALI
Balinese Topeng Jauk Crown (43x28cm/17x11 inches)
This really is an astonishing object that will appeal to the serious mask collector. It is a beautifully gilded tooled-leather crown, shaped rather like a Buddhist Stupa, and worn by one of the important masked characters, Jauk, a capricious demon king, in Balinese religious ceremonies and classical dance-dramas. The same type of crown is also worn by Telek, Jauk's female counterpart.
This theatrical and ceremonial crown is of exceptional quality, and would have taken weeks to make. It was commissioned by, and personally purchased from, a senior member of a Balinese royal family, where it formed part of his own collection of classical dance costumes.
The crown is constructed around a rattan and bamboo frame which supports a central wooden post. The frame is covered with woven bamboo matting, and this forms the base for the intricately-tooled and gilded leather ornamentation which covers the entire surface of the crown. Numerous pieces of variously shaped and finely pierced leather stand at 90 degrees to the surface, some interlocking with each other, to form a complex and ornate design that is full of symbolism. Additional ornamentation includes a fringe of hanging wooden cones around the brim, eight leather hibiscus flowers on springs, and a small red umbul-umbul flag...all designed to rustle and shimmer with the dancer’s every move. Below the brim there is a leather headband studded with 60 or so mirrors in various shapes and sizes. The inside of the crown is lined with red velvet. The gilding appears to be a mixture of real and imitation gold and paint, over a red base.
If you like this Jauk crown you may also be interested in acquiring the masks that go with it. We have several stunning examples of Jauk Manis (sweet) and Jauk Keras (coarse) by arguably the finest living Balinese mask maker. Several Jauk dance performances are on YouTube (search for Jauk Manis).
PRICE: £350.00 (US$577)
JAVA
Wayang Kulit Two-Horse Carriage – Java
(75x40cm/29x16 inches – excluding supports)
An interesting and unusual pre1950 leather shadow puppet of a traditional two-horse carriage with a modern (possibly Dutch) soldier attendant. The puppet, which is identical on both sides, is supported by the original wooden handle and a bamboo cane. The colours have faded a bit over the years, but this large wayang puppet is otherwise in excellent condition. It casts a great shadow and has a strong silhouette.
PRICE: £115.00 (US$190)
SUMATRA
An Old Pair of Batak Seated Guardian Figures
(29x13x7cm/11.5x5x3 inches)
A superb pair of male and female seated guardian figures with stylized skeletal bodies and large heads inset with bone eyes, and long pony tails suggestive of Chinese influence. The figures are beautifully carved in a hardwood, probably mahogany, and are virtually identical apart from the breasts and genitals. They have a wonderful profile, and display well as a pair. However, their stylized form looks great from any angle. Both figures are in excellent condition (no cracks or splits) and they have the deep warm colour and patina of age. They were purchased in Sumatra from an antiques dealer in 1988 since when they have been in our private collection.
PRICE: Offers Invited
PS. A larger almost identical pair, possibly by the same carver and listed as circa 1920 (67.5cm tall) recently sold on Ebay for US$25,000 (approx. £15,575). See YouTube video ‘Superb rare Batak stylized guardian figures’.
LOMBOK
Pair of Sasak Buffalo Horn Figures – Lombok (18cm/7 inches)
This rather bemused pair of Sasak male and female standing nude figures each contain a small storage space within, and are carved in two pieces from water buffalo horn. Their precise function is unknown but it is likely that they had had some magical purpose relating to the rice harvest, fertility or ancestry. They would make an interesting and original wedding gift!
PRICE: £125.00 (US$206)
SUMBA
Sumba Seated Male Ancestor Figure (20cm/8 inches)
A seated male ancestor or guardian figure from Sumba. He sits looking straight ahead with both hands raised to his chest as though he were holding something. A narrow slot has been carved into his right shoulder, the purpose of which is unknown. There are a few fine old and stable cracks, but otherwise this figure is in excellent condition. Collected in Sumba in the late 1980s, it is carved in hardwood and has a lovely patina of age and use.
PRICE: £145.00 (US$239)
TIMOR
Timor Wooden Lime Container (15cm/6 inches)
A Timorese carved and decorated cedarwood container used for storing lime powder (the lime is mixed with leaves and betal nuts to produce a mild stimulant). The stopper or plug has the form of a guardian spirit or ancestor with a small animal, possibly a cat, atop the head, while the barrel-shaped body of the container is decorated with 8 stylized carved crocodiles.
PRICE: £45.00 (US$74)
SUMBA
Sumba Double-Sided Sitting Male Ancestor Figure (21.5cm/8.5 inches)
Unusual double-sided sitting male ancestor or guardian figures from Sumba. The figures are symmetrically carved back-to-back and share the same torso and head but have their own faces, arms and legs. They sit looking straight ahead with their hands resting on their knees. Collected in Sumba in the late 1980s, it is carved in hardwood and has the rich golden patina of age and use.
PRICE: £140.00 (US$231)
LOMBOK
Lombok Terracotta Oil Lamp for Wayang Shadow Theatre (24x20cm/9.5x8 inches).
A terracotta oil lamp for throwing light on the screen during a performance of wayang, the Indonesian shadow play. This lamp was handmade in this traditional form in Lombok and intended for domestic use in the Javan and Balinese shadow theatre. The lamp would be suspended behind the white cotton screen and filled with oil. A rag wick would be pushed through the mouth and then lit. The puppets are held between the lamp and the screen t to cast their shadows.
SOLD
JAVA
Bronze Buddha Head from Java (30cm/12 inches)
A Javan hand-finished bronze cast from one of the Buddha carvings at Borobudur, the 8th century Buddhist stupa in central Java.
PRICE: £220.00 (US$363)
TIMOR
Timorese Sitting Male Ancestor Figure (8.5cm/3.5 inches)
A small male ancestor or guardian figure sitting on his haunches with his arms crossed on his knees. The scale and simplicity of this figure is both its charm and its strength. Carved in hardwood with a nice patina, it was collected in Timor in the 1980s.
PRICE: £75.00 (US$124)
JAVA
Old Bronze Frog from Java (16x9cm/6.5x3.5 inches)
A hand-finished ornate bronze cast of a frog from Java.
SOLD
BALI
Balinese Pratima Figure (26cm/10 inches)
An old carved and painted Balinese Pratima of a Hindu deity, Circa 1950s. Pratima are sacred representations of gods or spirits which the Balinese place in shrines and temples as vessels for the visiting gods to occupy during temple festivals and ceremonies.
PRICE: £195.00 (US$322)
BORNEO
Two Shamanic Stone Charms
A pair of carved stone ancestor or guardian charms believed to be from Borneo. The figures are carved in an interesting yellowish striated stone with lots of surface variation. They are stylistically similar and almost certainly carved by the same person. They were purchased in 1990 from a Balinese museum/gallery moments after they themselves had bought them from a visiting Indonesian tribal art trader.
The taller of the two figures sits on his haunches with his elbows on his knees and his face in his hands. His head is tilted to one side and he is smiling with an expression of contentment. The spaces between one arm and one leg have been carved through so that the limbs stand away from the body.
The smaller figure is also sitting on his haunches, but with his arms wrapped around his legs and his hands tightly gripping his ankles. His head is propped up on his knees. He/she is wearing a topknot, and has an expression of thoughtful melancholy.
To be sold as a pair (13.5cm/5.5 inches and 11.5cm/4.5 inches).
PRICE: £150.00 (US$248)
SUMBA
Sumba Seated Male Ancestor Figure (19cm/7.5 inches)
A seated male ancestor or guardian figure from Sumba. He has a superb stylized elongated face and sits on his haunches looking straight ahead with both hands resting on his knees. The pedestal on which he sits has an ornately carved top. Collected in Sumba in the late 1980s, this hardwood figure is in excellent condition has deep chestnut colouring and the patina of age and use.
PRICE: £145.00 (US$239)
BORNEO
Fossil Stone Ganesh Charm
(10x5cm/4x2 inches)
A very nice little stone sculpture of the Hindu elephant-headed deity Ganesh...carved in fossil bone. He sits holding his trunk in his left hand and the book of sacred text in his right.
This sculpture has an interesting grainy texture and grey colouration due to the unusual material from which it is carved (believed to be fossil bone). It is very heavy, dense and hard. It is pleasing to look at, feels nice in the hand, and is obviously very old. At some point in the past the top of the book has been chipped and glued back, but this is only apparent on very close inspection, and in no way detracts from the piece.
The precise age and origin of this stone Ganesh is uncertain, but similar protective stone amulets are known to have been carved in Kalimantan, Borneo. It is one of several carved fossil charms purchased from a Balinese antiques shop in the late 1980s. Stone carvings like this are extremely rare.
SOLD
BORNEO
Fossil Stone Ganesh Charm (9.5x5cm/4x2 inches)
A nice little stone sculpture of the Hindu elephant-headed deity Ganesh...carved in fossil bone. He sits staring straight ahead and would be symmetrical were he not holding the end of his trunk in his left hand.
This sculpture is very compact and has an interesting grainy texture and green-grey colouration due to the unusual material from which it is carved (believed to be fossil bone). It is very heavy, dense and hard. It is pleasing to look at, feels nice in the hand, and is obviously very old.
The precise age and origin of this stone Ganesh is uncertain, but similar protective stone amulets are known to have been carved in Kalimantan, Borneo. It is one of several carved fossil charms purchased from a Balinese antiques shop in the late 1980s. Stone carvings like this are extremely rare.
SOLD
BALI
Balinese Guardian Raksasa Demon Pratima (24cm/9.5 inches)
A rare 19th Century Balinese wood carving of a Raksasa (demon) Pratima. Superbly carved with tremendous detail. He stands on an ornate plinth, with one arm raised and ready to strike with the weapon he holds behind his back (a kris or club). In his other hand he holds a small lontar book.
Raksasa are protective guardian demons that frighten away evil spirits. They are usually found in pairs guarding the entrance to temples, palaces, bridges, etc. Pratima are sacred representations of god or ancestral spirits which the Balinese place in shrines and temples as vessels for visiting deities to occupy during festivals and ceremonies.
This is a very fine carving in perfect condition save for two very shallow old and stable cracks at the base of the plinth. The carving was originally primed in white and brightly coloured but this has now all but vanished over the years, and it now has a brownish old wood colour with the considerable patina of age and use. Purchased in Bali in the early 1990s from a private collection of Balinese antiquities.
PRICE: £195.00 (US$322)
TIMOR
Timorese Bamboo Betal Nut/Tobacco Container (14cm/5.5 inches).
A traditional Timorese Betal Nut/Tobacco Container made from bamboo. The container is cleverly constructed in two parts using the natural joints in the bamboo. It has decorative engraved borders top and bottom, and would have been made by the user. It’s impossible to date this container as traditional Timorese men still make them today, but it was acquired 20 years ago, and has the rich patina of age and use.
PRICE: £30.00 (US$50)
TIMOR
Timor Purse (12.5x7cm/5x3 inches)
A traditional Timorese woven crown purse made from dyed palm leaf (Circa 1950).
PRICE: £25.00 (US$41)
TIMOR
Three Timorese Bamboo Betal Nut/Tobacco Containers (Approx 15cm/6 inches).
Three traditional Timorese Betal Nut/Tobacco Containers made from bamboo. The containers are beautifully constructed in two parts using the natural joints in the bamboo. All have simple decorative bands engraved top and bottom, and would have been made by the users. It’s impossible to say how old the containers are as traditional men still make them today, but these were acquired 20 years ago, and have the rich patina of age and use.
PRICE: £65.00 (US$107)
Pair of Sumban Seated Ancestor Figures (23cm/9 inches)
A pair of seated ancestor or guardian figures from Sumba. Both have superb stylized elongated faces and sit on their haunches looking straight ahead. One figure has both hands resting on the knees, while the other has them wrapped around the legs. Both figures wear shoulder wraps which appears to cover the chest, and they sit on simply-decorated cylindrical pedestals.
It is apparent that these two carvings are by the same hand, and are almost certainly from the same household. They are therefore being offered for sale as a pair. They were collected in Sumba in the late 1980s, and have the deep chestnut colouring and patina of considerable age and use.
PRICE: £215.00 (US$355)
LOMBOK
Sasak Buffalo Horn Male Figure – Lombok (19cm/7.5 inches)
This Sasak standing nude male figure contains a small storage space within, and is carved in two pieces from water buffalo horn. Its precise function is unknown but it is likely that it had some magical purpose relating to rice cultivation, fertility or ancestry.
PRICE: £120.00 (US$192)
Fossil Stone Charm (9.5x5cm/4x2 inches)
A compact stone sculpture of a sitting figure holding his large elongated head in his hands. This intriguing little sculpture has an interesting grainy texture and appears to be carved from fossil bone. It is very heavy, dense and extremely hard...and would have taken an age to carve! It could be a charm or guardian figure. The precise age and origin of this stone carving is uncertain, but it looks and feels old and protective stone charms are known to have been carved in Kalimantan, Borneo. It was found in an Indonesian antiques shop in the 1980s.
SOLD
BORNEO
Dayak Baby Carrier from Kalimantan, Borneo
(41x36cm/16x14 inches)
Intricately carved from a single piece of heavy ironwood, denoting high status in the community, the baby carrier depicts 2 protective underworld figures (inset with shell eyes) believed to keep malevolent spirits away from the child. At the top of the carrier a string of glass beads are ornamented with charms – 4 small bronze bells and 2 wild boar tusks, to warn the mother of approaching danger. The shoulder straps are made from plaited horse hair. A nice example in perfect condition (Circa mid 20th Century). Purchased in 1988 from an antiques dealer in Bali.
PRICE: £395.00 (US$652)
BORNEO
Dayak Guardian Figure from Kalimantan, Borneo (46x21cm/18x8.5 inches)
Carved in heavy iron wood with an interestingly weathered surface due to its age. This demonic guardian figure grips two of his four horns and stares straight ahead. The small hole in its base may have served some ceremonial or ritual function, or perhaps have been used to fasten the figure to a post. Guardian figures such as this were often placed or carved at the top of poles and erected outdoors to protect the village and fields, and almost all show signs of weather corrosion. Puchased in Bali from a Dayak trader in 1990.
PRICE: £295.00 (US$487) NFS
Ancestor or Guardian Figure of a Female Shaman (44x11cm/17x4.5 inches)
An exceptionally unusual old carving of a standing Female Shaman. She stands on a raised pedestal beside a twisted staff with one arm raised and the other at her crotch. A large snake encircles her naked body several times from knee to groin to shoulder, its fangs licking at her breast.
This carving has a strangely powerful and commanding presence...it seems almost imbued with mysterious magical properties. Carved in heavy iron wood, with a lovely patina. It was purchased from an antique shop in Bali in the early 1990s and is belieived to be from Kalimantan, Borneo. It is one of our favourite primitive carvings and is in excellent condition.
PRICE: £440.00 (US$726) SOLD
Dayak Ceremonial Bowl from Kalimantan, Borneo (54x30x10cm/21x12x4 inches)
Carved in heavy ironwood with the head and arms of a protective spirit figure at one end, it has an ornamental shell disc in its centre and is raised off the ground on four short legs. There is a small hole near the edge of one side for hanging. In excellent condition.
PRICE: £220.00 (US$363)
BORNEO
Dayak Male Fertility Figure from Kalimantan, Borneo (47x12cm/18.5x5cm)
Carved in heavy ironwood this anthropomorphic Dayak standing figure takes the form of the protective underworld guardian udog, and features huge male genitals symbolising masculinity and fertility. It was purchased in Bali from a Dayak trader in 1990 and was probably carved in the 1950s.
PRICE: £410.00 (US$677)
Shamanic Stone Charm (10cm/4 inches)
A fascinating and unusual carved stone charm of a seated ancestor or guardian figure believed to come from Kalimantan, Borneo.
SOLD
Shamanic Stone Charm (21cm/8 inches)
A stone charm of a seated ancestor or guardian figure carved in fossil wood, from Kalimantan, Borneo.
PRICE: £225.00 (US$371)
BALI
Gilded Saraswati Pratima (20x9cm/8x3.5 inches)
This is a carved and gilded Pratima of Dewi Saraswati sitting astride her vehicle, a swan. She holds a hollowed vase between her hands, and on her lower back there is a carved bowl-like opening. Both containers were intended to hold something...perhaps an offering, or symbolic token. This carving dates from the 1950s and may have resided in a family or house shrine.
Saraswati is the Hindu Goddess of knowledge, music and the arts. She is the consort of Brahma and considered to be the ‘Mother of the Vedas’. Pratima are sacred representations of gods or spirits which the Balinese place in shrines and temples as vessels for the visiting gods to occupy during temple festivals and ceremonies.
PRICE: £90.00 (US$148)
BALI
Balinese Goddess Pratima (20x7cm/8x3 inches)
A nicely carved painted and gilded Pratima of a standing Dewi or Goddess dressed in traditional Balinese costume and holding a small pot in her right hand (Circa 1950). Pratima are sacred representations of gods or spirits which the Balinese place in shrines and temples as vessels for the visiting gods to occupy during temple festivals and ceremonies.
PRICE: £120.00 (US$198)
Seated Male Ancestor Figure
(22cm/8.5 inches)
An interesting old ancestor figure from Eastern Indonesia, possibly Timor or Leti. He has a wonderfully stylized pointed head on an elongated neck, and sits on his haunches with his hands clutching his legs. Carved in hardwood and in excellent condition save for a little ancient damage to the nose.
PRICE: £110.00 (US$182)
Lombok Fish Trap (38x25cm/15x10 inches)
A superb example of a traditional Lombok fish trap made entirely from bamboo and rattan. The craftsmanship is simply amazing, and it must have taken days to complete. The internal aperture through which the fishes pass has a diameter of about 3cm, so clearly this trap was intended for small fish, perhaps to be used as bait. There is a tight-fitting bamboo plug at the closed end through which the catch can be released.
This fish trap was purchased in Lombok about 20 years ago and is in perfect condition. Back then these traps were fairly commonplace, although this is the best we came across. Some were later converted to pendant lamps for bars and restaurants following the influx of tourists into Lombok. Now they are extremely rare and have become collector’s items. It’s a sad fact of life that today’s handmade fish traps are simpler and more crudely constructed, and a far cry from this beautiful traditional specimen.
If displayed suspended from the ceiling by a fine thread the trap produces a wonderful moire effect as it turns.
PRICE: £175.00 (US$289) SOLD
Ebony Male Ancestor or Guardian Figure from Lombok (19cm/7.5 inches)
An old ancestor or guardian figure of a nude male sitting on his haunches with his hands gripping his knees. The figure has great character and is nicely carved and well-proportioned, with a small topknot, and deliberately large ears. It is carved in dense heavy ebony wood and is perfect save for an old and stable crack that runs from the neck to the penis.
PRICE: £175.00 (US$289)
Pregnant Fertility or Ancestor Figure (23cm/9 inches)
A boldly carved heavily pregnant fertility or ancestor figure from Eastern Indonesia, probably Sumba or Timor. She stands erect with one hand holding her belly and the other at her genitals. This unusual carving dates from the second half of the 20th century, and has an interesting and pleasant slightly textured surface patina. The figure is in perfect condition apart from a repair to the front of the right foot, a clean break that has been glued.
PRICE: £120.00 (US$198)
JAVA
Antique Javan Wayang Klitik Puppet (40x19cm/16x7.5 inches)
An old gilded and painted wood Wayang Klitik puppet from central Java. It depicts a fairly refined but angry male character armed with a keris (dagger) and wearing a sarong. Very nicely carved in low relief from teak wood and painted and gilded, the puppet is identical on both sides. The jointed leather arms are manipulated by bamboo sticks attached to the hands.
Wayang klitik puppets, unlike wayang kulit (shadow puppets), are operated directly in front of the audience without a screen. Performances are rare these days, and old wayang klitik puppets are increasingly difficult to find. This puppet is in very good condition for its age.
PRICE: £125.00 (US$206)
JAVA
Antique Javan Wayang Klitik Puppet (40x16cm/16x6 inches)
An old gilded and painted wood Wayang Klitik puppet from central Java. It depicts an unarmed bearded male character of a course disposition wearing a sarong. Very nicely carved in low relief from teak wood and painted and gilded, the puppet is identical on both sides. The jointed leather arms are manipulated by bamboo sticks attached to the hands. Wayang klitik puppets, unlike wayang kulit (shadow puppets), are operated directly in front of the audience without a screen. Performances are rare these days, and old wayang klitik puppets are increasingly difficult to find. This puppet is in very good condition for its age.
PRICE: £125.00 (US$206)
BORNEO
Frog Plaque (50x20cm/20x8 inches)
A rather unusual decorative relief carving, or wall plaque, of a stylized frog by a young artist from Kalimantan, Borneo. Superbly carved in stained teak. One for the frog collector!
PRICE: £110.00 (US$182) SOLD
2 Balinese Lidded Baskets (17&14cm)
A pretty pair of Balinese lidded baskets hand-woven from rattan and dyed banana leaf.
PRICE: £55.00 (US$90)
2 Balinese Atta Grass Pagoda Baskets (H30cm & H33cm)
Two very fine and unusual one-of-a-kind pagoda-topped baskets woven from Atta Grass – simply beautiful! Atta Grass is actually a tough wild vine that grows in the forests around Tengannan in east Bali. The baskets are woven by a small number of Bali Aga (original Balinese) villagers using centuries-old techniques that have been passed from generation to generation (shields were once made of woven atta grass). After weaving, the pieces are smoked over a coconut and honey fire to produce a rich golden colour. These baskets are beautiful, durable and functional. The Atta Grass basket weavers of Tengannan are noted for the exceptional quality and the originality of their work, and one-of-a-kind pieces such as these can be found in art galleries and collections around the globe.
NOT FOR SALE
Balinese Atta Grass Spherical Lidded Basket (H20x23cm)
A stunning, almost spherical, woven Atta Grass lidded basket from the east Bali village of Tengannan. This basket is of the finest quality with the tightest and smallest weave possible, and should not to be mistaken for similarly-shaped but inferior baskets from Lombok. A beautiful, strong and functional work of art!
NOT FOR SALE
Balinese Atta Grass Spherical Basket (H19cm)
A lovely spherical Atta Grass lidded basket from the east Bali village of Tengannan. This basket is of the finest quality and should not to be mistaken for similarly-shaped but inferior rattan baskets from Lombok. It has an honest functional simplicity and would make an excellent small gift.
PRICE: £48.00 (US$80)
NIAS
Pair of kneeling ancestor figures from Nias
(28cm/11 inches)
A very nice pair of kneeling male and female ancestor figures from Nias, an island off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. Carved in hardwood and polished, they have inset bone or ivory eyes. Nias ancestor figures are kept inside the house as receptacles for the souls of the dead, and are thought to have healing powers. These were purchased in 1988 from an Indonesian antiques dealer in Bali.
PRICE: Offers Invited
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