Carved Wooden Figure / Handle Tool from Timor Island, Indonesia (circa 1960s-70s)

Carved wooden handle with human figure from Timor Island, Indonesia (circa 1960s - 70s) on contemporary metal stand. This is a traditional carving of a standing figure with a handle top. This may have been used as a weaving tool or handle for another apparatus. Although this is a piece with a specific practical use, the island of Timor gave rise to a distinctive practice of creating traditional sculptures whose precise origins and significance remain uncertain. Generally, carved sculptures and masks are specific to rural villages. Here the practice of animism, or nature-worship, is incorporated with the carving of ancestral statues and masks, which have a ritualistic function. Some occasions that call for these ceremonies may have included asking for successful crop planting, for prosperity, for good weather for the spinning of cotton, for the smooth running of village or regional affairs, for weddings and other celebrations, and for the offering of friendship and reaffirmation of allegiances through royalties or tribute along with the ever present betel nut. This piece is in fair vintage condition commensurate with age and includes the contemporary metal stand. There are characterful nicks, cracks and blemishes throughout. Please see accompanying photos for detail. 

 

Dimensions (without stand):

H 28 cm / 11.0"

W 3 cm / 1.2"

D 4.5 cm / 1.8"