* A petite, vintage Toba Batak ancestral figurine. According to their belief, each person has two souls: one attached to a person’s life which disappears upon death, and the other which continues to exist in the afterlife and stays in the earthly realm near the deceased’s home and village. Carvings such as these are said to embody the associated symbolism. In characteristic form, the figure has stylised facial features, seated with knees bent and legs drawn towards the body.

 

* This rare, unusually small representation with the juxtaposition of the elongated facial portrait is approximately 11cm in height, weighing 90 gms.

 

* The item shows signs of wood-related wear and some patination commensurate with age (as photographed).

 

All items will be packaged with care and I will ensure it is suitable for transit.