Ancestor figure "debata idup" · Indonesia - Sumatra, Batak · ID: 3047828
sold
EUR 1,500
Size
H: 23 cm
H: 9.1 inch
Description
wood, miniature glass beads, base
This figure was originally part of a pair of ancestor figures “debata idup”, which were carved in the image of the founding ancestors of a clan or village. Like the elaborate magic wands, they were usually made by the “datu” priests.
They were placed on racks inside the house where they were regularly “fed” and anointed. They played an important role in fertility rituals for childless couples.
Comparing literature
Sibeth, Achim & Bruce W. Carpenter, Batak Sculpture, Singapore 2007, p. 138