DESCRIPTION/EXPERTISE
This piece exhibits a dull greyish brown patina with free carved legs rising from a rectangular base, both hands resting on the chest, oval head with conical headdress. Piece shows traces of weathering, right arm is missing. “Hampatong” figures are placed in front of longhouse entrances or other places where malevolent spirits are likely to appear. They are also errected in shrine areas “tajahan”, which is a small sacred area containing a sacrificial shrine surrounded by “hampatong”. There are two kinds of “tajahan”, one set up in connection with headhunting and another for mortuary feasts. At a mortuary feast a “hampatong” is set up for each dead person. “Hampatong” are thus images of named ancestors. They are also errected in the village square in a sanctuary “pataho” in front of the chiefs residence. The “pataho” is described as a masculine village guardian against danger and approaching enemies.

MEDIUM
Iron wood

SIZE
221cm high – 9cm wide – 4,5cm depth

PROVENANCE
Private Belgian collection

PRICE
€ 1.800

Expertly mounted
All dimensions are without the mounting