Description:

Eastern Indonesia, Leti Islands, Maluku Islands (Maluku Province), ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A wooden ancestor panel featuring a high relief carving of a seated male figure on a shelf, nude except for jewelry, and a cup or bowl in his hands. The recessed arch behind is carved with curving vine motifs. Deceased family members were honored with these stylized carvings- and their spirits were believed to reside within the wood to help the living communicate with the supernatural. Ancestor figures were known as "yene," and figural panels were set into the walls or shrines of houses to provide protection. Size: 18" L x 4" W x 40" H (45.7 cm x 10.2 cm x 101.6 cm)

Ancestors played a vital role in the daily lives of the peoples throughout Indonesia; ancestors were thought to be responsible for the creation of the world, to ensure fertility and wealth, and prevent disasters. When an individual passed away, a wooden image known was created to house the deceased's spirit and mediate between the world of the living and the world of the deities and placed on an altar or shrine. Offerings were made to these figures in order to ensure the effigy's constant support and benevolence towards the living.

Provenance: private Hawaii collection, acquired before 2010

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#174455

  • Condition: Stable pressure fissures. Surface pitting and minor abrasions, otherwise intact and very good. Wonderful weathering and patina.

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December 29, 2022 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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