Description:

Southeast Asia, southern Indonesia, Timor, Belu province, Atoni peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. A cut cow's skull with dramatic scrimshaw carvings of two abstract, anthropomorphic figures, their bodies composed of a series of densely incised circular, diamond-shaped, and linear geometric forms. Above this decoration are two small, round eyes, a downturned, small mouth, an incised nose, and incised decorations on the "cheeks" that may represent tattoos. A hole drilled above each orbit provides a place for affixing the mask. The Atoni people are the dominant native group on Timor, who speak a Mayalo-Polynesian dialect, Timorese. Unlike other ethnic groups on Timor, they practice agriculture rather than fishing. Masks like this one are used as part of rituals relating to the planting and harvest cycle. Size: 6.75" W x 9.2" H (17.1 cm x 23.4 cm)

Provenance: private Newport Beach, California, USA collection

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#148563

  • Condition: The bone has a rich patina from age and handling. Scrimshaw is in nice condition, with some wear commensurate with age.

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September 5, 2019 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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