Indonesia, Borneo, Dayak Tribe, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. Carved wooden amulet or shamanic charm in the form of a standing human form with hands to their sides, drilled features, and multiple tacks used to create a coiffure. Figures like these were used in divining as part of the traditional religion of the Dayak people. Prior to the arrival of missionaries in the dense rainforests of Borneo - and for those not convinced by their message - the Dayak had shamans who were powerful and esteemed personages within a village, who needed to be consulted for every major village decision and who functioned as healers and advice-givers for individuals within the village. A shaman would used objects like these as aids in their work. Size: 4.5" H (11.4 cm)

Provenance: collection of the late Peter Arnovick, San Francisco, California, USA

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#121106

One tack missing else intact and generally excellent.