Symbolic Enchantments Collection

Symbolic Enchantments

Introducing "Symbolic Enchantments," a captivating collection of wooden artworks that transcend mere sculptures, embodying profound meaning and timeless allure. Each meticulously crafted piece not only showcases exceptional artisanship but also carries with it the essence of the visionary creator. These artworks hold profound symbolism, inviting exploration of hidden depths and artistic brilliance. Discover talismans, containers, and stoppers meticulously designed to preserve treasures and sacred artifacts, all crafted by the hands of a master artist. Embark on an enchanting journey, allowing these artworks to awaken your imagination and immerse you in the world of a true artistic genius.

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Wooden Monkey-like Figure Amulet

Introducing an exquisite wooden monkey-like figure amulet, a unique and captivating artifact with a rich historical significance. This enchanting amulet serves as the stopper to a traditional bamboo container that was once used to safeguard important objects of great importance, ranging from precious documents to powerful talismans.

Specifications
  • Ethnic: Dayak Ngaju
  • Material: light wood
  • Encrustations: Eggs, blood, and other sacred offerings
  • Dimensions: 11.5 × 6.5 × 4.5 cm
  • Price: CHF 600.-
  • Inv. BO.08.016

  • This remarkable amulet features an intricately carved section that depicts a monkey-like figure. Every detail of the carving showcases 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 mystique and spiritual energy, making it a truly extraordinary 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.

    Whether you are an avid collector, a history enthusiast, or someone seeking a unique and meaningful artifact, this Wooden Monkey-like Figure Amulet is sure to captivate your imagination and intrigue your senses. Add this extraordinary piece to your collection and experience the allure of ancient traditions and sacred craftsmanship.

    Ngaju Bambo Tube

    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.

    Specifications
  • Ethnic: Dayak Ngaju
  • Material: light wood, bamboo, rattan
  • Dimensions: 41 x 7 x 7 cm
  • Price: CHF 600.-
  • Inv. BO.08.021

  • The stopper of the Bambo 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 remarkable, featuring two languid, almond-shaped eyes and a big open and smiling mouth. This unique expression adds a captivating element to the overall appearance of the Bambo tube.

    The intricate craftsmanship and symbolic elements of the Bambo tube indicate that it likely holds cultural, spiritual, or ceremonial importance within the Ngaju community. Such artifacts provide valuable insights into the rich traditions, beliefs, and artistic expressions of the people who created them.

    Ngaju Wooden Amulet: Maternity Carving from South Borneo

    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.

    Specifications
  • Ethnic: Dayak Ngaju
  • Material: light wood
  • Dimensions: 41 x 7 x 7 cm
  • Price: CHF 600.-
  • Inv. BO.08.023
  • 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.

    Sincan Anthropomorphic Amulet: Protective Female Figure

    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.

    Specifications
  • Ethnic: Dayak Pasir
  • Material: Wood, patina
  • Dimensions: 30 × 15 × 9.5 cm
  • Price: CHF 1'000.-
  • Inv. BO.12.060
  • 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.

    Sincan Anthropomorphic Amulet: Protective Male Figure

    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.

    Specifications
  • Ethnic: Dayak Pasir
  • Material: Wood, patina
  • Dimensions: 33 × 17 × 8 cm
  • Price: CHF 1'000.-
  • Inv. BO.12.061
  • 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 showcases 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.

    Pasir Dayak Anthropomorphic Amulet: Protective Female Figure

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

    Specifications
  • Ethnic: Dayak Pasir
  • Material: Wood, patina
  • Dimensions: 15 × 7 × 3.5 cm
  • Price: CHF 1'200.-
  • Inv. BO.12.062
  • 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.

    Amulets from Borneo have gained significant recognition, thanks to publications like "Hampatongs" and "The Divine Gifts." This particular amulet showcases stylistic elements reminiscent of those documented in these volumes while displaying unique local characteristics, such as the intriguing hands with three pointy fingers, which pay homage to the nearby Bahau and Modang styles. This magnificent piece encapsulates the essence of the invisible magical world from which it originates, evoking the oneiric experience often found in Dayak representations.

    Pasir Dayak Anthropomorphic Amulet

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

    Specifications
  • Ethnic: Dayak Pasir
  • Material: Wood, patina
  • Dimensions: 18 × 7 × 3.5 cm
  • Price: CHF 800.-
  • Inv. BO.12.064
  • 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.

    Amulets from Borneo have gained widespread recognition through publications such as "Hampatongs" and "The Divine Gifts." This particular amulet shares stylistic features akin to those documented in these volumes, while also showcasing distinct local elements, such as the intriguing hands with three pointy fingers reminiscent of the nearby Bahau and Modang styles. This magnificent piece encapsulates the essence of the invisible magical world from which it emerges and evokes the oneiric experience that often inspires Dayak representations.

    Pasir Dayak Anthropomorphic Amulet: Serene Male Figure

    Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Dayak Pasir in East Borneo with this remarkable 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.

    Specifications
  • Ethnic: Dayak Pasir
  • Material: Wood, patina
  • Dimensions: 19 × 7 × 12 cm
  • Price: CHF 2'000.-
  • Inv. BO.15.070
  • Fashioned from a single piece of wood, the amulet boasts 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.

    Acclaimed through publications like 'Hampatongs' and 'The Divine Gifts,' Borneo's amulets share stylistic similarities while embracing distinctive local nuances. This magnificent piece offers a glimpse into the hidden magical world and evokes the dreamlike experiences that inspire the captivating representations found within Dayak culture.
    Available for CHF 2,000, this Pasir Dayak Anthropomorphic Amulet is cataloged under inventory number BO.15.070, inviting you to connect with the rich artistic heritage and cultural significance of East Borneo's Pasir Dayak community.

    Pasir Dayak Anthropomorphic Amulet

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

    Specifications
  • Ethnic: Dayak Pasir
  • Material: Wood, patina
  • Dimensions: 15 × 7 × 6 cm
  • Price: CHF 800.-
  • Inv. BO.15.071
  • With a powerful muscular physique, captivating 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.

    Documented in publications like 'Hampatongs' and 'The Divine Gifts,' Borneo's amulets showcase stylistic similarities while incorporating unique local details such as the intriguing three-pointed fingers reminiscent of Bahau and Modang influences. Embrace the magnificence of this piece, revealing the invisible magical world and evoking the dreamlike origins of Dayak representations. ✨🙏🌌 #AnthropomorphicAmulet #BorneoProtection #MysticalSymbolism #EnchantedHeritage

    Pasir Dayak Anthropomorphic Amulet

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

    Specifications
  • Ethnic: Dayak Pasir
  • Material: Wood, patina
  • Dimensions: 14 × 7 × 6 cm
  • Price: CHF 800.-
  • Inv. BO.15.072
  • With a powerful muscular physique, captivating 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.

    Documented in publications like 'Hampatongs' and 'The Divine Gifts,' Borneo's amulets showcase stylistic similarities while incorporating unique local details such as the intriguing three-pointed fingers reminiscent of Bahau and Modang influences. Embrace the magnificence of this piece, revealing the invisible magical world and evoking the dreamlike origins of Dayak representations.