Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Sumatra, Toba Batak, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A superb wood panel used as an architectural / house ornament with the stylized and scrolling visage of a legendary being known as the singa, believed to offer protection to individuals, homes, and communities from harmful supernatural forces. The panel showcases openwork design, with polychrome pigments in white, red, and black applied to the incised areas and across the surface, although weathering has made these colors faint over time. A deep slot is carved into the verso, likely intended for mounting on a tenon, and a modern suspension wire has been added for hanging. The singa name originates from the Sanskrit word for 'lion,' though the singa itself is a mythical hybrid creature incorporating traits from multiple animals. It typically features large, round eyes and horns that symbolize water buffalo. This singa was likely mounted to the gable of a house or rice granary. Size: 24" L x 2.25" W x 42.5" H (61 cm x 5.7 cm x 108 cm); 49" H (124.5 cm) with the included custom stand.
Compare to a similar example at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, object number 1988.143.20.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection
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Condition
Repaired, large fissure and cracked infilled with stabilizing adhesive visible on the verso. Chips and losses to the peripheries from weathering / exposure to elements. Pressure fissures throughout. Fading to painted motifs. Overall great condition with a custom display stand and modern wire added to the verso for suspension.