Hampatong Guardian Figure

Bahau, Dayak, Borneo, Indonesia
19th century


This maternity figure was most
likely situated in the verandah

of the long house structure. Its weathered gray surface shows evidence of being exposed to the outside elements. The figure is carved in high relief with great depth. The flat back signifies that the figure was originally incorporated into a larger architectural structure. The saw marks at the bottom of the figure show the point at which the figure was detached from the larger structure. Both the mother and child have powerful, expressive features. The right hand of the mother has claws for fingers, which are an indication of the early period during which the hampatong was carved.

The figure is 17 inches tall.
IN 2-13-14 / Price On request