Small forms, carried meanings.

well-made wooden monkey-like figure amulet, an object with a rich historical significance. This distinctive amulet serves as the stopper to a traditional bamboo container that was once used to safeguard important important objects, ranging from precious documents to powerful talismans.

This notable amulet features an intricately carved section that depicts a monkey-like figure. Every detail of the carving shows the skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail of the ancient artisans who created it. The monkey, known for its agility and intelligence, is believed to bring protection, good fortune, and wisdom to its possessor.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this amulet is its encrustations, which are attributed to the ancient custom of pouring offerings such as eggs, blood, and other sacred substances over the amulets. These encrustations imbue the amulet with an air of presence and spiritual energy, making it a truly unusual piece.

The Wooden Amulet holds a significant place in historical records and has been documented in esteemed volumes such as “The Divine Gifts” (fig. 25) and "Sapuyung" (p. 162). Its presence in these volumes further attests to its cultural and historical importance.

a fascinating piece of cultural heritage from South Borneo, specifically associated with the Ngaju people. It is a chiseled bamboo container used to store particularly important objects such as written documents or amulets.

The stopper of the Bamboo tube is particularly noteworthy, as it is finely decorated with an animal sitting in a squatting position, with its crossed arms leaning on its knees. This animal figure harimaung likely holds cultural or symbolic significance within the Ngaju community.

The description mentions a rare kind of necklace made up of “crescent moons” adorning the vigorous chest of the animal figure. This necklace is said to be a distinct ornament exclusively owned by the wealthiest dignitaries, highlighting the importance and status of the object.

The face of the animal figure is also notable, featuring two languid, almond-shaped eyes and a big open and smiling mouth. This unique expression adds a notable element to the overall appearance of the Bamboo tube.

This wooden amulet originates from the Ngaju people in South Borneo. It serves as the stopper for a bamboo container that was used to hold important objects, such as documents or talismans.

The amulet's carved section depicts a maternity representation, likely holding cultural or symbolic significance within the Ngaju community.

The encrustations on the amulet are attributed to the custom of pouring eggs, blood, and other offerings over such amulets, likely as part of ritual practices or ceremonies.

The amulet's craftsmanship and symbolic elements offer valuable insights into the cultural beliefs and practices of the Ngaju people.

This anthropomorphic amulet hails from the Pasir Dayak community in East Borneo. Crafted from wood with a distinct patina, it measures 30 × 15 × 9.5 cm. The amulet represents a female figure holding her hands on her lap. Such figures have an apotropaic function, primarily used for protection from the evil eye and malevolent spirits. Traditionally, women place these amulets near their sleeping mats from the third month of pregnancy until the newborn reaches three months of age, signifying their protective significance during this crucial time.

The amulets from Borneo have gained recognition through various publications, notably “Hampatongs” and "The Divine Gifts." While this amulet shares stylistic similarities with examples documented in these publications, it also bears distinctive local features, such as the unusual hands with three pointy fingers reminiscent of nearby Bahau and Modang styles. The unique blend of regional influences adds to the charm and cultural significance of this protective amulet.

This anthropomorphic amulet originates from the Pasir Dayak community in East Borneo. Carved from wood with an evident patina, it measures 33 × 17 × 8 cm. The amulet depicts a male figure holding his hands on his lap.

These anthropomorphic representations serve an apotropaic function, primarily used for protection from the evil eye and malevolent spirits. Traditionally, women place these amulets near their sleeping mats from the third month of pregnancy until the newborn reaches three months of age, emphasizing their significance during this vital period.

Amulets from Borneo have gained recognition through publications like “Hampatongs” and "The Divine Gifts." While this amulet shares stylistic similarities with examples documented in these volumes, it shows distinctive local features, such as the surprising hands with three pointy fingers reminiscent of nearby Bahau and Modang artistic influences. The combination of regional styles adds to the amulet's cultural appeal and protective symbolism.

This notable anthropomorphic amulet originates from the Pasir Dayak community in East Borneo. Crafted from wood, it measures 15 × 7 × 3.5 cm.

The amulet portrays a female figure holding her hands on her lap, serving an apotropaic function, protecting from the evil eye, and warding off malevolent spirits. As part of tradition, women keep these amulets near their sleeping mats from the third month of pregnancy until the newborn reaches three months of age, signifying their crucial role in protecting both mother and child during this period.

This well-made anthropomorphic amulet originates from the Pasir Dayak community in East Borneo. Carved from wood, it measures 18 × 7 × 5 cm.

The amulet depicts a male figure holding his hands on his lap, serving an apotropaic function, providing protection from the evil eye and malevolent spirits. As per tradition, women use these amulets, placing them near their sleeping mats from the third month of pregnancy until the newborn is three months old, symbolizing their role in safeguarding both mother and child during this critical period.

the notable world of Dayak Pasir in East Borneo with this notable Anthropomorphic Amulet, presenting a male figure with hands gracefully resting on his chest. Meticulously carved with intricate details, this statue embodies a lifelike appearance, featuring a softly contoured body and a tranquil posture that exudes natural serenity.

Fashioned from a single piece of wood, the amulet has a flawlessly smooth and polished surface, showcasing the skillful artistry of its creator. The human-like face of the figure exhibits a thin, elongated nose, wide eyes, and a slender neck, while its expression remains enigmatic, devoid of emotion.

a realm of enchantment and protection. Enter the realm of ritual protection with this Anthropomorphic Amulet from Borneo, featuring a male figure in a dynamic posture, hands pressed against his chest.

With a powerful muscular physique, notable eyes, and a distinctive stylized mustache, this amulet exudes strength and symbolism. Serving an apotropaic function, it safeguards against evil and nefarious spirits.

Traditionally cherished by women, these amulets find their place near sleeping mats throughout pregnancy and the first three months of the newborn's life.

a realm of enchantment and protection. Enter the realm of ritual protection with this Anthropomorphic Amulet from Borneo, featuring a male figure in a dynamic posture, hands pressed against his chest.

With a powerful muscular physique, notable eyes, and a distinctive stylized mustache, this amulet exudes strength and symbolism. Serving an apotropaic function, it safeguards against evil and nefarious spirits.

Traditionally cherished by women, these amulets find their place near sleeping mats throughout pregnancy and the first three months of the newborn's life.