Object Notes

The heart-shaped face, circular eyes, and expressive open mouth of this figure are in the tradition of the Dongson culture of Vietnam (c. 600 BCE– 100 CE).

Toraja noble houses are imposing buildings distinguished by a roof that sweeps upward at each end and by their densely carved and painted façades.

The tora-tora, a symbol of masculinity, fierceness, and invulnerability, is usually worn by war leaders.

The central pendant on this necklace resembles the head of a water buffalo, an age-old symbol of wealth and high social rank among the Batak. The delicate surface decoration on the central pendant represents Islamic influence on Batak art and culture.

Three squatting figures with their elbows posed above their knees are carved in relief on this architectural panel. Judging by its scale and tapered shape, it was most likely the central panel from a small mausoleum or shrine house.