Toraja Gate, Island of Sulawesi (Celebes)
Indonesia
Wood
Height:... Lot 57
result :
Not available
Estimate :
Subscribers only
Toraja Gate, Island of Sulawesi (Celebes)
Indonesia
Wood
Height: 98 cm (without hinges)
Width: 51cm
Provenance:
Former Fargeix collection
The Toraja traditionally bury their dead in caves nestled in cliffs. These burial cavities are sealed by impressive wooden doors, richly carved with representations of venerated ancestors and buffalo heads, the latter, known as kerbau, symbolizing both fertility and prosperity. The symbolic significance of these carved doors also meant that they were used to close granaries. Set in wood for eternity, these totemic representations of stylized buffalo honor sacrificial animals and accompany the deceased to the world beyond.
The rectangular door features the classic representation of the bovid, whose high-relief head is largely dominated by long, curved horns that meet in the center. The animal's face, whose gaze is represented by two diamond-shaped eyes, is framed by large ears. The vertical element carved between the buffalo's horns could evoke a possible connection with Indonesian cosmology, linked to the Tree of Life or the Tree of the World.
We use cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience, perform site traffic analysis, and deliver content and advertisements most relevant to your interests.
Cookie management:
By allowing these cookies, you agree to the deposit, reading and use of tracking technologies necessary for their proper functioning. Read more about our privacy policy.