BATAK "PAGAR" GUARDIAN FIGURE, SUMATRA

Origin: Indonesia, Sumatra, Batak people  (Provenance: Ex. Collection of James Willis, San Francisco.  Willis purchased the figure in 1977 from an old collection of Batak Art in Amsterdam.  This large purchase of Batak material was instrumental in the publication of Willis' exhibition catalog: "Sculpture of the Batak" May 15th- June 30th 1979.)

Period/Date: Early 20th century

Materials: Hardwood, seed (coix lacrimae), resin, pukpuk magical substances, cloth

Description:  This powerful pagar figure with large hands appears to be a rare style.  Its primary purpose was protection and to warn enemies of the supernatural powers held by the "Datu" Priest who made it.  Other features which make it distinctive include the elongated face with dramatic red coix seed eyes, its undulating eyebrows, its scalloped cap and sculpted chest!  Although the body is block-like, it tapers and flows nicely suggesting movement especially when viewed from the side and back.  A large "pukpuk" cavity in the chest is still present.  There appears to be an old plug inset into the top of the head with resin and cloth, likely for a plume of hair.  The figure would have originally been inserted into a slotted piece of wood with a peg driven into the base to secure it.  It has acquired an encrusted varied dark patina from long use.  In good condition, presented on a custom wood base.

Dimensions:   Height: 15"  (38 cm), Width 2 5/8"  (6.7 cm)

Price:   SOLD