Lot 116a, Auction 4/3/2026: Three Borneo Dayak Wood & Bone Nude Figures

$520.00

In stock

Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Borneo (Kalimantan), Dayak culture, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A group of three miniature Dayak figural carvings from Borneo, comprising two wood figures and one animal bone figure, each presenting a distinct pose and material character while sharing a restrained, frontal approach to the human form. All three figures are nude, emphasizing symbolic posture rather than individual identity. The largest wood figure depicts a seated figure with knees drawn up, forearms resting across the knees, and hands brought together. A carved snake wraps around the torso, crossing at the chest and looping across the back, an element commonly associated with protection, spiritual power, or ancestral symbolism in Dayak belief systems. The figure’s compact posture and integrated serpent suggest a ritual or talismanic function. Size of largest (figure with snake): 1″ W x 3.4″ H (2.5 cm x 8.6 cm)

The mid-size wood figure stands upright in a modest pose reminiscent of a Venus pudica stance, with the left arm drawn across the chest and the right arm lowered across the body, the hand resting near the hips. The smallest figure, carved from bone, stands with hands folded at the stomach, its simplified anatomy and smooth surface reflecting both the material and the scale of the carving.

Miniature Dayak figures such as these were often used as personal amulets, ritual objects, or representations of ancestral or protective spirits. Together, this group illustrates the variety of materials, poses, and symbolic elements employed in Dayak figural carving.

Condition: Bone figure has pitting and ossification to head, legs, and base. All have expected weathering with some nicks and abrasions to surface. Otherwise, all three are intact with rich patinas.

Provenance: private Thousand Oaks, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.