Indonesia, Sumatra, Toba Batak, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. Extensively carved and quite large, a wooden winged head of a powerful mythical lion called a "singha" - depicted with a fierce visage comprised of large, round eyes, a protruding nose, and a wide smirking mouth - all topped by a peaked crest and flanked by enormous separately carved wings with flame-like borders. The details are meticulously incised and highlighted with a contrasting palette of red, black, and white pigments to symbolize the three levels of the universe. Size: 36.5" L x 25.375" W (92.7 cm x 64.5 cm)

This piece was published in "Art of the Indonesian Archipelago from the collection of Paul and Diane Haig" - a catalogue accompanying the exhibition of the same title at Oakland University's Meadow Brook Art Gallery (February 26 - April 9, 1995) - page 51, figure 96. The text caption reads, "A winged 'singha' (lion) head carving used for house decoration and protection. It is carved of wood and painted red, black and white (representing the three levels of the world) to form a face with ornamental scrolls."

Provenance: ex-private Rochester, Michigan, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#126659

One wing reattached and shows slight adhesive residue at the join. A few age cracks, normal surface wear and pigment loss commensurate with age - though much pigment remains and the carved details are quite vivid.