Ceremonial Paddle with hand carving

Period: 19th century
 
Origin: Siberut, Mentawai Islands, Western Sumatra, Indonesia

Material: Wood

Size: L 69cm

Description: The Siberut Mentawai Islands ceremonial paddle with carvings is used as a symbolic and ritualistic object within the cultural practices of the Mentawai people of Siberut Island, Indonesia. These paddles, adorned with intricate carvings, hold deep spiritual significance and are often used in ceremonies, rituals, and traditional events.

Among the Mentawai, these ceremonial paddles are not just utilitarian objects but are also considered sacred artifacts that connect them to their ancestors and the spiritual realm. They are used in various rites of passage, such as initiations, marriages, and other communal ceremonies. The carvings on the paddles often depict mythological and ancestral motifs, reflecting the tribe's beliefs, stories, and cultural identity.

ID-AC-006