Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Borneo, 19th century. A hand-carved, hollowed out bamboo tube with a conical cap and a wooden handle that is finely carved with a mythical rainforest spirit sitting upon the upper end, looking out with large bulging eyes, and posed with upraised knees and one hand placed on the chin of its expressive visage, only partially covering its toothy grin. Skillfully woven/plaited rattan bands at the upper and lower ends of the bamboo container also wrap around the rainforest spirit handle. This piece is known as a "tolor" or "telenga," a traditional quiver for carrying poisonous darts. Size (w/ lid): 3.25" W x 12.625" H (8.3 cm x 32.1 cm)
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex Dr. Gallagher collection, Sydney, Australia 1960-2000, acquired in Kuching, Malaysia in 1982
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#161487
Condition
Stable hairline fissures atop lid, with light abrasions to handle and quiver body, and loosening to some braided rattan bands, otherwise intact and excellent. Great patina across quiver and handle.