Hampatong statue of a woman - Dayak, Borneo (Indonesia)

Description

Impressive Hampatong statue of a woman (Dayak, Borneo), 55 cm. Carved from hardwood with deep, warm patina. The woman sits in a crouching position with her arms around her knees; her long hair falls over her back and is shielded by a leaf-shaped element on the hairband. Subtle, geometric carving motifs accentuate torso and head, enhancing the spiritual intensity of the sculpture.

Origin & meaning
Within Dayak culture, Hampatong statues acted as protectors of dwelling places and ritual sites; they honoured ancestors and had to ward off evil. This female example embodies protection, life cycle and fertility, in line with the traditional protective role of these statues. Similar female Hampatong statues are in museum collections, such as the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the Brooklyn Museum.

Dimensions & condition
Height 55 cm. Hardwood with authentic age marks and even, dark patina. Condition: good; restoration to the ear (nicely done; see detail photo).