Lot 144
Originally offered at $2750...
Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Sumatra, Toba Batak, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A superb wood house ornament presenting as the head of a singa - a mythological creature of the Batak people that is part human, part water buffalo, and part crocodile or lizard and believed to hold apotropaic powers. Exhibiting a massive form, the fierce visage features traditional characteristics of a singa, displaying an elongated face with large, bulging eyes, a projecting nose, a horse-like muzzle, and a broad mouth held open to expose carved teeth and a lengthy, extended tongue. A trio of abstract horns curve backwards from the top of the pointed head. The beast is meticulously incised with mesmerizing striated, scrolling, and phytomorphic motifs that are additionally adorned by black, red, and white pigments. Size: 14" W x 45" H (35.6 cm x 114.3 cm)
According to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, "The central image in Toba Batak art is the singa, a supernatural creature whose likeness protects individuals, homes, and communities from malevolent supernatural forces. The name singa derives from the Sanskrit word meaning lion. However, the Toba Batak singa is a fantastic composite that combines features of several different species. Among the defining features of the singa are the three stylized, backward-curving horns that crown the head. Most also have large round eyes, a human-like nose, and a horse-like muzzle with a long protruding tongue that is intended to intimidate supernatural enemies. The singa image occurs on items ranging from finger rings to monumental stone sarcophagi. Some of the most prominent appear on the facades of Toba Batak houses and rice granaries."
Cf. Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1988.143.170, 1988.143.27, and 1988.143.70.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, 1995 to 2010
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#170979
- Condition: Expected weathering with stable fissures, nicks, chips, and abrasions. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice remaining pigments and impressively preserved detail. Metal suspension wire on verso.
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