Description:

Central Asia, northeastern India/Burma, Naga people, ca. early 20th century CE. An intriguing fetish formed from a skinned monkey skull that has been dyed a deep russet-red hue. The jaw is secured to the top of the skull via several intersecting fiber strands and still retains several of its back teeth. Attached to the top of the skull are a pair of attenuated horns that likely came from a juvenile antelope. Naga shamans used skulls like this example for a number of ceremonial and ritual purposes, and the intimidating appearance is perhaps meant to ward off evil spirits and bad magic. Size: 6.5" L x 6" W x 4.625" H (16.5 cm x 15.2 cm x 11.7 cm)

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA

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#149677

  • Condition: Losses to some teeth and areas of jaw and back of head as shown. Minor loosening to some fiber strands, with fading to areas of original red pigmentation, and light encrustations within some recessed areas. Nice earthen deposits throughout.

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October 3, 2019 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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