Lot 300a, Auction 3/19/2026: Tall Dayak Wood Hampatong Ancestor Guardian Figure

$650.00

In stock

Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Borneo, Kalimantan region, Dayak, Ngadju or Ot Danum people, ca. 19th to 20th century CE. A carved wooden hampatong ancestor-guardian figure depicted in a squatting posture atop a thick base. With hands resting on the knees, the fingers are rendered as stylized spiral forms that are widely used in Dayak art. The figure displays a tall elongated head, circular eyes, pronounced ears, and headdress with a smaller visage. The surface shows deep weathering and pronounced vertical grain, likely ironwood, a dense material suited to long outdoor exposure in the humid jungle climate. Traditionally placed along pathways or near longhouses, such figures signaled the protective presence of ancestral spirits and served as spiritual guardians for the community. Size: 11″ W x 60″ H (27.9 cm x 152.4 cm)

Condition: Weathering and patina from exposure to elements. Deep pressure fissures throughout, with losses to high pointed areas. Stable condition. Gray patina throughout.

Provenance: private Rogers, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-Bosio collection, Miami, Florida, USA, 1960-2000

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