Standing Guardian Sentinel

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GENERAL DESCRIPTION
In contrast to ancestor figures (debata idup), guardian sentinels were provided with a magically effective ingredient (pupuk), which was inserted into square or rectangular cavities in the chest or liver areas. These cavities were closed with a covering made of wood or metal, which was glued or nailed to them.

Knife hilt

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GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Looking at this knife hilt from the front, a large human face wearing an immense headdress dominates the composition. From the side, the figure’s thin and disproportionally small arms and legs that are arched to the back are seen. This particular depiction of the human body indicates that a priest or magician (datu) is represented.

Sword with Janus-faced hilt in an undecorated sheath

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GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This rare type of sword with its unusual hilt is a Toba Batak sword known as a piso halasan. The sword hilt was cut from water-buffalo horn and features three small, curved pins of differing lengths made of iron. Above five simply engraved rings are two identical carved faces, which are facing in opposite directions.

Datu

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GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Traditionally, aside from the rajas or kings, the most important persons in Batak society (of northern Sumatra) were the datu or priest-magicians. Persons of powerful personae and spiritual insight would seek to undergo rigorous training to become a datu.
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