Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Timor Island, Belu or Tetum People, ca. early 20th century CE. A fascinating wooden door of a house or granary, known as an oda matan. Enveloped in a rich mocha-hued dye, the impressive example displays a rectangular form, skillfully hand-carved with raised motifs that unite the male and female elements of a Tetum household. The top features the headdress of a male warrior in the shape of broad buffalo horns, representing protection, just above a pair of domed female breasts, which serve as a symbol of fertility. A raised square at the center showcases a mesmerizing design of square spirals resembling Greek key patterns, likely derived from the ancient bronze work of the Dong Son - a culture living in North Vietnam around 500 BCE. Similar to the rhomb and hook motifs of the Dong Son, the pattern relates to symbols of vitality and continuance of life found throughout the world. Projecting tabs at the top and bottom would have served as hinges when the door was in place. Size: 16.1" W x 50.2" H (40.9 cm x 127.5 cm)

Cf. Yale University Art Gallery, accession number ILE2012.30.809 and Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, object number 2002/6/1.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, between 1995 to 2010

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#168903

Expected nicks, chips, abrasions, pitting, and indentations throughout. A few areas of minor loss to surface. Otherwise, intact and excellent with rich patina and impressively preserved details. Metal suspension wire on verso for display.