Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Timor, ca. mid-20th century CE. An intriguing ancestral bust in the form of a benevolent male figure with an innocent presence. The figure is covered in a dark pigmented paint with nice earthen deposits scattered throughout. His face is delineated by a gentle triangular nose, a pair of ovoid eyes, a brief slit-form mouth, and a pair of tubular ears. His hands are outstretched attentively at his sides. This example is believed to have originated from West Timor, towards end of colonial occupation. Size: 4" L x 2.75" W x 9.75" H (10.2 cm x 7 cm x 24.8 cm); 15.5" H (39.4 cm) on included custom stand.
Ancestors played a vital role in the daily lives of Indonesians; ancestors were thought to be responsible for the creation of the world, to ensure fertility and wealth, and prevent disasters. When an individual passed away, a wooden image like this example, was created to house the deceased's spirit and mediate between the world of the living and the world of the deities.
Provenance: private Houston, Texas, USA collection, purchased in Taos, New Mexico, USA in 1993
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#162922
Condition
Partial loss to one arm as shown. Earthen deposits scattered throughout. Wood’s patina is predominantly covered in a dark pigment with surface abrasions revealing light brown and orange hues. Custom stand included as shown.