Bahau Ancestral Male Figure

Origin: Dayak, Eastern Borneo

Period: 19th Century

Material: Wood

Size: 17in

Description: 19th Century "Bahau" Ancestral male figure, funeral figure, these statues commemorate the deceased and is not alway an ancestor but a mere general representation guardian figure that protect the living from the afterworld.

This is a are, heavy, very old, extremely rare, exceptional example of Dayak Tribal art. Traces of dry white jungle mold and pigments are evident. Top and bottom show signs of extreme age. Carved ancestor figures of the Dayak, such as this are generally referred to as 'hampatong'. They are placed at the entrance of houses, at sacred shrines, and in front of the chief's home, as a protection against evil spirits, diseases and enemies.
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ID-AN-077

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