Amulet from Soul Ship
Dayak, Borneo, Indonesia
Early 20th Century

Small wood ships filled with figures were suspended by palm fiber ropes in Dayak Longhouses. These ships were physical reminders of the inhabitant's ancestors and of the afterlife. They symbolized the transportation of deceased souls to the land of the dead. This figure would have been placed in one of these ships. Carved of wood, this figure exhibits fantastic movement and plasticity. His right hand has been damaged, and probably used to hold a spear. Carvers marks can be seen across the body of the entire figure.

Height: 7 1/2 " in.
IN 4-8-14 / SOLD