Rare Adu Zatua Tribal Panel Wood Carving Nias Islands Indonesia Early 20th

  

Antique Adu Zatua Tribal Panel Wood Carving - Nias Islands Indonesia Early 20th. Indonesia, North Sumatra Province, Nias Islands, Southeast Asia ca. A fabulous wood architectural panel featuring a high relief carving of an ancestor figure seated in a tall headdress on a ceremonial chair. He holds a cup in each hand. A wild Dog or Pig holds the chair with the help of two Monkeys on each side.

The throne, ornamentation, and headdress which signifies the tree of life- all indicate a person of importance. Finely carved, with rich reddish brown- but nearly black patina throughout, this panel was used for worship and the patina may have developed from rubbing fat or oil into the surface as offerings. Deceased family members were honored with these stylized carvings- and their spirits were believed to reside within the wood to help the living communicate with the supernatural. General ancestor figures were known as "adu zatua, " while noble and legendary chieftain figures were called "adu siraha salawa"- such as this example. These figural panels were set into the walls or shrines of houses to provide protection.

Ancestors played a vital role in the daily lives of the peoples of Nias; ancestors were thought to be responsible for the creation of the world, to ensure fertility and wealth, and prevent disasters. When an individual passed away, a wooden image known as an adu zatua (also adu zafua), was created to house the deceased's spirit and mediate between the world of the living and the world of the deities. Offerings were made to adu zatua figures in order to ensure the effigy's constant support and benevolence.

Part of the house altar with ancestor statue Adu Zatua - Central Nias - Indonesia This altar with the prominent ancestor Adu Zatua is made as a connection between the living and the ancestors. The altar was kept as a precious commodity. In case of conflict the altar gives protection. Collected in Indonesia sometime before 1977. It has a sort of Provenance on the back with former owners name and formally lent out in 1991 at some point.

Very beautiful detail and in great shape. I see no chips, cracks or damage. Origin: Nias Island - Indonesia.

Size: 8" Wide x 5" Depth x 15.5 Height. I believe in WYSIWYG - What you see is what you get. All products are exactly the ones shown in my listings, no stock photos. "Pictures are worth a thousand words".

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