Handcarved in the highlands of central West Timor this lovely old deeply patinaed characteristic well carved ancestor figure has been finished is an excellent example of Timorese fetish carvings.  Unknown age...approx. 30 years C1980

This lovely charm is one of a series that I was given by a Shaman. There are 5 effigies in the set. You may obtain one or all 5. Just email for more info and images.
Patina red cedarwood/kiyu merah

11.5cm tall x 4.5cm dia

5.5" tall x 1.5" dia

50g/1.7oz

Timor has a long tradition of carving ancestor or guardian figures for various functions. One is to protect those still earthbound within the family and another is to use as a "photograph" to tell stories of the person to descendants. Fetish and fertility statues have their place in the society and are used by the Dukun or village Shaman to bring about auspicious circumstances for women and crops. Totem poles and offering platforms are still be be found dotted throughout the kampongs in the highlands.

Staying true to their Animist past many Timorese/Atoni from the central highlands of West Timor create images that reflect the nature in the material (world). Still carved today using little more than a machete and a penknife by those who continue the carving tradition.

I am not going to tell you that this was carved by a shaman or indeed used by one. The village Dukun is the Shaman and carvers are carvers.

Because of the diameter of this treasure it must be sent as a parcel. You can put 2 or 3 items of a similar weight into one parcel to maximize shipping.

US/Canada/Middle East= AU $16.00  Airmail /  AU $13.00 Seamail

France/UK/Spain/Rest of World= AU $18.00 Airmail / AU $13.00 Seamail

Asia/Pacific= AU $14.75  Airmail   /  New Zealand = AU $13.50   Airmail

Australia=$8.50

You are welcome to combine shipping. Insurance or registered additional. Frieight prices subject to change.