Lot 52A
Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Borneo, Dayak peoples, ca. mid-18th century CE (C14 Tested). An intriguing wooden protective figure known as a hampatong of exceedingly advanced age. The nude female figure exhibits delineated legs and genitalia between, with her right arm held out to her side, perhaps with her hand originally placed atop her thigh or knee. Her oversized head is poignant in its presentation, with black-painted eyes above a broad jawline, the nostrils of her nose still showing, and a bulging forehead that leads to a lock of hair falling down to her right shoulder. Figures like this are thought to ward off evil spirits and thus protect a village, and were placed outside, as exemplified by the weathering and patina on this piece! Size: 4.75" L x 5.8" W x 12.625" H (12.1 cm x 14.7 cm x 32.1 cm); 14.375" H (36.5 cm) on included custom stand.
The word hampatong comes from the Dayak word "patong" which means statue. Most hampatong figures portray ancestors and supernatural guardians from the Dayak religious system and these guardians are believed to prevent evil spirits, especially those bringing illness from entering the community. hampatongs also serve as temporary homes for the spirits of the deceased, where they briefly stay before beginning their journey to the afterlife. Each one has its own specific purpose, as they all represent specific ancestral spirits or deities.
A similar example of a larger size can be seen at Bonhams, Los Angeles "African & Oceanic Art" auction (May 1, 2024, lot 1).
This piece has been tested using radiocarbon dating (C-14) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired from 2000 to 2010; ex-Cathy Cootner collection, San Francisco, California, USA, famous art collector and dealer
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#185181
- Condition: Old losses through as shown. Fading to pigment on eyes, with inactive insect damage, a few stable fissures, light earthen deposits, and minor chipping, otherwise in excellent condition given its age. Wonderful patina and surface smoothness throughout.
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