Since our epic Balancing The Universe: Shamanic Amulets, Instruments and Costumes exhibition last fall, we have additional objects to include – healing and power objects and ritual protector figures, that didn’t make it into the show. If you follow our Gallery Blog, no doubt you will see even more of these ancient southeast Asian shaman ritual objects in the future. The pieces below are from tribal Indonesia and are included together in this one post instead of divided by specific island or tribe as in the previous shaman show posts.
Female Magic Figure
Kodi village, West Sumba, Indonesia, early to mid 20th c., stone, Shaman uses this for prayer and to gather healing power to treat people. 14 1/2″ x 7″ x 6 1/2″ without base (16 1/2″ with base), $850.
Shaman Healing Figure
(near) Kodi village, West Sumba Island, Indonesia, mid 20th c., jack fruit wood, 11 1/2″ x 6″ x 5″, $400.
Shaman’s Ritual Dance Rattle
Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, early 20th c., Monkey skull, sea shells, bone, ceramic beads, Shaken to scare away evil or harmful spirits, ~ 13″ x 5″, $550.
Shaman’s Ritual Dance Rattle
Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, early 20th c., Monkey skull, sea shells, metal nail, ceramic beads, glass bead, Shaken to scare away evil or harmful spirits, 12″ x 7″, $550.
Shaman Male and Female (pair) protection and healing figures
Timor Island, Indonesia, Early to mid 20th c., stone, cloth, pigment, used to protect the home and for healing, (male – 7 1/4″ x 5 1/4″) (female – 7 3/4″x 5″), $975. for the pair
Shaman Magic Figures
Timor Island, Indonesia, Early to mid 20th c., stone, Used in rituals to make rain. ~ (left – 6 1/2″ x 5 1/2″ x 4 1/2″), (right – 7″ x 5″ x 4 1/2″, $340. each
Pig Hunting Effigy
Lamboya village, West Sumba Island, Indonesia, Early to mid 20th c., Sentiki root wood, Shaman empowers the effigy to bring a successful hunt. (male – 7 1/4″ x 5 1/4″), (female – 7 3/4″ x 5″), $380.
Shaman’s mortar and anthropomorphic pestle (set)
Besikama village, Timor, Indonesia, mid 20th c. wood, for healing herbs and substances, pestle – 12 1/2″ x 2 1/2″; mortar – 7 3/4″ x 4 1/2″ x 4″, $650. for the set
Shaman’s 3-Faced Figure Holy Water Jar Stopper
Kodi village, Sumba Island, Indonesia, late 19th to early 20th c., ceramic, 14″ x 9″, $1200.
Shaman Figure – Rare
Dhoki village, Flores Island, Indonesia, stone, late 19th to early 20th c., For healing and divination rituals. This effigy was passed down from father to son. Once a year, it is fed blood to empower it. 14″ x 9 1/2″ 6 1/2″ w/o base (17″ with base), $1600.
Shaman’s Medicine Jar (see next image for top detail)
Sumba Island, Indonesia, early 20th c., bamboo, wood, twine, pigment, Container for healing herbs and substances, with carved seated figure holding a ceramic or wooden vessel. 23″ x 7″, $390.
Detail (from previous image) of Shaman’s Medicine JarShaman’s Medicine Jar
Sumba Island, Indonesia, early 20th c. bamboo, wood, twine, for healing herbs and substances, 12″ x 4 1/2″, $280.
Shaman Figure
Anakalang village, West Sumba Island, Indonesia, Early 20th c., stone, pigment, used for healing and protection and to predict auspicious dates for rituals, and possibly to find lost items. 15 1/4″ x 8″, $1800.
Shaman’s Power Object/Healing Wand, Cat, Horse, Dog, Bird (see next image for detail)
Sumba Island, Indonesia, Early 20th c., wood, 9 1/2″ x 2 1/4″ x 2″, $160.
(detail of previous image) Shaman’s Power Object/Healing Wand, Cat, Horse, Dog, BirdShaman Ritual Healing Object
Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, wood, 13 1/2″ x 1 3/4″ x 8″, $220.
This introduction and following series of related posts on shamanism serve as an online version of our 2017 fall exhibition, ‘Balancing The Universe: Shamanic Amulets, Instruments and Costumes’. We also have a full color photo catalog available of the all the pieces in the show and 12 color postcards of selected pieces. Scroll down to see catalog and cards at end of this post.
You have likely heard the term ‘Shaman’, but who were – or, are they? Shamanism is an intriguing phenomenon.
Since the beginning of humanity, there has been a need to cure the ailing, and to integrate the physical and spiritual worlds. This universal need gave rise to the art of healing or, ‘Shamanism’. A shaman is a highly trained and disciplined, man or woman, who can enter the spirit world at will to communicate with and influence spirits in service to their community. They have been the keepers of knowledge, the healers, the priests, and the philosophers in virtually all societies around the globe.
Animism, the belief that all things have souls, is another globally shared phenomenon and forms the spiritual origins of the rituals and traditions that most of us in the modern western world see as mysterious. But what is art, science or religion without mystery? Art and spirit converge in this show to take you on a journey into the inspiring and enlightening unknown.
All shaman have a unique repertoire of amulets, instruments, and costumes essential to their own culture. This exhibition includes a wide range of spiritual artifacts personally collected by David Bardwick over the last fifteen years from Nepal, Nagaland and Myanmar, Vietnam and Thailand, and across the Indonesian Islands.
Shamanism is a matter of curiosity for those unfamiliar with its conventions, but it endures as a universal healing method and path to the spirit world which are integral parts of daily life for billions of people around the world
Exhibition Catalog from the Balancing The Universe: Shamanic Amulets, Instruments and Costume. A full color, 72 page catalog of almost all of the Shaman objects in the exhibition. $14. 12 color postcards for $12. Selected shaman pieces from the Balancing The Universe exhibition.
Less famous than Bali, Lombok the neighbor island directly to the east and is part of the Lesser Sundas. The indigenous Sasak people are predominantly Muslim after experiencing a long period of Hindu and Buddhist influence. However, as in most of the tribal cultures of Indonesia, ancient traditional ritualistic practices endure and shaman are still highly respected. They are regularly sought out as powerful healers and practitioners of magic to ward off evil and illness as well as to manage many other individual and community issues.
Shaman Healing Fetish Wand, Lombok Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Late 19th c, Wood, cotton cloth, metal coins
This is held in the shaman’s hand to contact the spirits for healing rituals. 35” x 13 ½” x 7 ½”, $2400. (see detail of feet in image below)
detail of previous image – feet under the skirtMagic Ghost Figures, Lombok Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Wood. 8 ½” x 5 ¾” x 5 ½”, $790 (sold as pair)Shaman Talisman Wand, Lombok Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Mid 20th c. Wood, horn, cotton cord
Held in shaman’s hand, used in healing rituals, hung on the wall in shaman’s house when not in use. 10 ½” x 12” x 11”, SOLD
Shaman Sacred Water and Herb Scoop, Lombok Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Mid 20th c, Wood, bamboo
Used for scooping holy water and medicinal herbs for healing rituals. Dimensions left to right: (left – 9 ¼” x 6 ¼” x 4 ½”, $160.); (rear middle – 9 ¼” x 9 ½” x 3 ½”, $160.); (front middle – 6 ¼” 7 ¾” x 2 ½”, $120.); (rear right – 12 ¼” x 9 ¼” x 3 ½”, $280.); (right front – 11 ½” x 10” x 3 ½”, $160.)
Shaman Protection Figure, Indonesia, Lombok Island, Early 20th c, Wood, cloth, coins, beads
Protects shaman and client from harmful spirits during rituals, 20” x 7 ½” x 3 ½”, $1100. SOLD
Healing Fetish Wand, Lombok Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Wood, fiber
Held in shaman’s hand during ritual for healing calling the spirits, 15 ½” x 3 ½” 4”, $420.
Holy Water Containers, Lombok Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Mid 20th c, Wood, ceramic, fiber, pigment
Shaman jar for holy water for purification rituals. Dimensions: (left – 6” x 3 ¼” x 3 ¼”, SOLD); (right – 6 ¼” x 3 ¼” x 3 ¼”, SOLD)
Shaman Healing Fetish Rattles, Lombok, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early to mid 20th c, Wood pigmented with soot, metal blade, cloth fiber
Used for healing rituals – Shaken to fend off harmful spirits. Dimensions: (left – 12” x 5 ½” x 4”, SOLD); (right – 14” x 7” x 6”, SOLD)
expanded view of shell fetish rattles shown in previous imageShaman Fetish Hanging Charm, Lombok or Nusa Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Wood, glass, nails, metal, plant fiber, cotton cord
Used for healing rituals, 12” x 14” x 9 ½”
Shaman Magic Figure, Lombok Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Mid 20th c, Wood, paint
Used for calling spirits and for healing rituals. 16” x 6” x 4”, $360.
Shaman Healing Fetish Rattle, Lombok Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Mid to late 20th c, Wood pigmented with soot, bone, cloth, seed pod and shells
Used in healing rituals. 12” x 12” x 12”, $1300.
‘Palalintangnan’ – Kamasan Astrological Calendar Bali, Indonesia, Kamasan village, Early 20th c, Cotton cloth, printed and painted
Represents gods, goddesses, attendants, animals, and inscriptions which are used for fortune telling. 45” x 51”, $750.
‘Lupong Manang’ – Shaman’s Medicine Carrier/Backpack with Healing Figures (rare), South Sulawesi, Indonesia, Toraja tribe, Mid 20th c, Wood
Shaman made their own medicine kits, including wooden backpacks, to contain items for healing, protections and predictions – such as special teeth, stones and other items. The figures on the exterior correspond to illnesses and other conditions or ailments. 19” x 9 ½” x 10”, $2200.
Shaman’s Medicine Box, Sulawesi, Indonesia, Toraja tribe, Early 20th c, Wood
Container for medicinal, herbs for healing. 14 ¼” x 9 ¼” x 8”, $290.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA:
Sacred Flute with Wusear Effigy Stopper, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Biwat people, Early 20th c, Flute body – Bamboo, raffia. Effigy Figure – Carved in wood, this figure is particularly elaborate – shell eyes, feather eyelashes, woven clothing and shell and feather adornments with tar and string
Played in pairs for the initiation ceremony for boys. The flute had the power to be voices of the spirits. The anthropomorphic figures or Wusear are specific to these flutes and were inserted into the top when not in use to prevent evil spirits from entering the sacred instruments. They were kept in the homes of the shaman and it was taboo for women and children to see them. 55” x 9 ½” x 8”, $9500. SOLD
Shaman Shell Necklace, Papua New Guinea (Irian Jaya), Indonesia, Mid 20th c, Shell, cloth, fiber cord
Worn by the shaman for healing ceremonies. 19” x 15” x 3 ½” $850.
Shaman Magic Figure, Papúa New Guinea, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Wood
Used in ritual ceremonies to stop rain. 11 ½” x 1 ½” x 1 ¼”, $135.
Shaman Talisman Figure, Papúa New Guinea, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Wood (figure on right)
Used in ritual ceremonies to stop rain. (Figure on right – 12 ½” x 2” x 2 ½”, SOLD)
Shaman Healing Stones Necklace, Papua, New Guinea (Irian Jaya), Indonesia, Early to mid 20th c, Stone, Shells, cloth fiber cord
Used in healing ceremonies. 18” x 5” x 1”, $550.
Shaman Healing Stone Necklaces, Papua, New Guinea (Irian Jaya), Indonesia, Early to mid 20th c, Stone, Shells, cloth fiber cord
Used in healing ceremonies. Dimensions: 16″ to 20″ long, $110. each
Timor, like Flores is more mountainous than the rolling hills of Sumba, but the shamanic culture is much the same. Both islands are now predominantly christian, although, like most of the cultures throughout the Lesser Sunda Islands, they have integrated the newer belief systems with their ancient roots in Animism. (for several neighboring Lesser Sunda Islands see the following post)
‘Katoda’ – God Effigy, Timor Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Stone
Shaman would pray to a Katoda to predict natural disasters. 19” x 5 ½” x 6 ½”, $1600.
Shaman’s Ritual Figure, Timor Island, Sunda Island, Indonesia, Niki Niki village Early 20th c, Wood, fiber cord, shell
Used by shaman to treat people as well as for other traditional rituals. 21” x 7 ½” x 6 ½”, $1400. SOLD
‘Seer’ or Divining Talisman/Fetish, Timor Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Late 19th c, Stone, pigment, European Glass seed beads
The inlaid ‘white heart’ beads were particularly desirable. Used in healing ceremonies to ‘See’ – or locate, lost items and to determine the appropriate day and time for performing each ceremony. 6” x 2 ½” x 5”, $550. (see companion ‘seer’ in image below)
Divining Amulet/Fetish, Timor Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Late 19th c, Stone, pigment, European Glass seed beads, 5 ¼” x 1 ¾” x 2 ¼”, $400.Ancestral Offering Statue, Indonesia, Timor Island, Boti village, Mid 20th century, Wood
This totem-like carving of many ancestor effigies is used by shamans in contacting spirits and healing rituals. 11 ½” x 4” x 3 ½”, SOLD
Ancestral Offering Figures, Timor Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Anakalang tribe, Early to mid 20th c, Wood
Used by shaman for healing rituals. (left, male fig – 8 ½” x 5” x 3 ½”); (right female fig -9” x 4 ¾” x 4”), $875. (sold as pair)
Magic (Female) Effigy, Timor Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Niki Niki village, Early 20th c, Wood
Used for healing treatments. 10 ¾” x 8 ½” x 10”, $285.
Healing Figures, Timor Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Mid to late 19th c. Stone
Used in healing rituals. (left – late 19th c, 3 ¾” x 2 ¾” x 3 ¼”, SOLD); (right – mid 19th c, 3 ¾” x 2 ¾” x 3 ¼”, SOLD)
Shaman Healing Amulet/Talismans, Timor Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Wood
Used in healing rituals, (left – 3 ½” x 1 ½” x 4”, $80.); (right – 3 ¾” x 1 ¾” x 3 ½”, $100.)
Shaman Healing Amulet/Talismans, Timor Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Wood
Used in healing rituals, (left – 4 ¼” x 1” x 3 ½”, $65.); (right – 3 ¼” x 1 ¼” x 4”, $80.)
Shaman Healing Amulets, Timor Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Mid 20th c, Wood
Used in healing rituals. Dimensions left to right: (left – 3 1 /2” x 1 ¼” x 1 ½”, $70.); (left middle -2 ¾” x 1” x 1″, SOLD); (right middle – ~3 x 2); (right – 2 ½” x 1” x 1″, SOLD)
Shaman Medicine Mortar (rare), Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Wood
Preparing medicines using a pestle to grind, 10 ¾” x 4” x 4 ½”, $425.
Shaman Healing Medicine Container Necklace, Alor Island, Timor Islands, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Mid 20th c, Wood, beads, shell (Telescopium telescopium, or Horn snail spire)
Used to hold medicine for healing rituals, 4 ½” x 1 ½” x 1 ¼”, $390.
Medicine Woman Effigy with Child (rare), Alor Island, Flores Islands, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Mid to late 20th c, Wood
Used for healing rituals, 10 ½” x 3 ½” x 2 ½”, SOLD
Shaman Figure (rare), Atauro Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 20th c. Wood, cloth
Used to protect people from harmful spirits during rituals. Faded and patinated with use and age, original red color of cloth still visible. Dimensions: (left – 22 ½” 5 ½’ x 7 ½”, $1200.); (right – 25 ¼’ x 4 ¼” x 6 ½”, $1200.)
Shaman Amulet Necklace, Timor Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Ceramic stone figures and beads, shell, cotton
Worn by the shaman for healing ceremonies. 21” x 11” x 1 ¾”, $650.
Shaman Amulet Necklace, Timor Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Ceramic stone figures and beads, shell, cotton
Worn by the shaman for healing ceremonies. 20 ½” x 11” x 1 ¾”, $650.
Shaman Healing Fetish, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Wood, fiber, metal nail
Kept in the shaman’s home. Covered in tiny holes from being pierced by its attached nail during rituals. Found in the ocean. 30” x 12” x 8”, SOLD
Shaman Talisman Figure, Wetar Island, Timor Islands, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Late 19th c, Wood, pigment, glass bead eyes
Used for healing rituals. 12 ½” x 4” x 4”, $430. SOLD
Shaman Healing Amulet/Talisman, Moluccas Islands, Lesser Sundas, Indonesia, Letti Village, Early 20th c, Wood
Flores, and Timor, are more mountainous than the rolling hills of Sumba, but the shamanic culture is much the same. Both islands are now predominantly christian, although, like most of the cultures throughout the Lesser Sunda Islands, they have integrated the newer belief systems with their ancient roots in Animism. (see Timor and several neighboring Lesser Sunda Islands in the following posts)
Volcano God Effigy (exceptionally rare), Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Manga Lewa Village, Mid 18th c, Stone, cloth
Used by shaman for predicting volcanic eruptions. Passed down through four generations. 15” x 5 ½ x 5 ¾”, SOLD
Shaman Healing Figures, Male, Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Mid 20th c. Wood
One of the pair held in each hand during a ceremonial dance for healing a marriage. (female – 8” x 7 ¾” x 1”); (male – 8” x 8” x 1 ½”), $590. sold as pair
Magic Protection Figures, East Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Mid 20th c, Wood, bamboo, thread
Kept in household kitchen to protect the home. Dimensions: 10″ to 17″ tall; $135. to $225. (far left and far right SOLD)
Magic Talisman Figure, Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Bajawa village, Mid 20th c, Wood
Used for healing rituals. 15 ½” x 6 ½” x 4”, $320.
‘Caci’, Ritual Fighting Whip, Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Manggarai tribe, Early 20th c, Wood, rattan, bark
‘Caci’ is a powerful magic whip-fighting ritual performed during a harvest festival with complex ritual preparations. It is played by 2 men, usually from different villages. The Whip symbolizes the male phallus, the father and the sky. The shield used with it symbolizes the female, the womb and the earth. These elements are united when the whip hits the shield symbolizing life giving sexual unity. It is a playful event but any blood shed is considered an offering to the ancestors who will then ensure fertility of the land. 14” x 10” x 2 ½”, $520.
Effigy Figure, Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Late 19th to early 20th c, Aggregate Stone
Used by shaman for healing and divination, 11” x 8” x 6”, sold
Shaman’s Effigy Figure, West Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Bena village, Early to mid 10th c, Stone
Used by shaman for healing and divination. 11 ½” x 7 ½” x 5 ½”, Sold
Shaman Figure, Central Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia Island, Japu village, Early 20th c, Stone, cloth strap
For protecting the clan house and for divination, 11” x 3 ½” x 5 ½”, $800.
Nitta Watu (rare), Kitchen Protector Figure – Shaman Power Object, West Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Maumere district, Nita or Bena Village, Early to mid 19th c, Stone, pigment, cloth strap for hanging
Used to protect a house or home. 14” x 5 ½” x 6”, $1700.
Magic House Protector, West Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early to mid 19th c, stone
Magic House Protector, West Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early to mid 19th c, stone, cloth strap, 19” x 5 ¾” x 4 ¼”, $1800.
group photo (above) of the 3 previous house protectors figuresNita Ina, Magic Figure, Flores Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Maumere district, Nita Village, Late 19th to early 20th c, Tree bark, cloth, shell
Used for either ‘white’ or ‘black’ ritual magic (dark energy does not inhabit the figure itself) (male figure – 26 ½” x 14 ½” x 6 ½”,$1900.), (female figure – 23” x 10” x 5”, $1400.)
Sumba Island is part of the ‘The Lesser Sunda Islands’ – the long sweeping chain of islands south of Bali that make up the southern part of Indonesia. In the following posts we include items from Sumba, Flores, Timor, Lombok and a few others. There are many similarities in belief systems throughout the Lesser Sundas but the material culture is unique to each island.
Although the people of Sumba are now mostly of Christian or Muslim faith, their ancient Animistic belief system remain a powerful influence in daily life. This is reflected in the art and tools of shaman priests. Shaman are still a fundamental part of society, presiding over new building construction, births, deaths, marriages, mock wars and other cultural rituals and celebrations. Their blessings and protection rituals are essential to the well being of the community and the individual’s physical and spiritual health.
The tribal, hilltop villages which which consist of twelve to twenty to twenty stilt houses, are much the same as they were hundreds of years ago, as are most of the practices of everyday life. Sumba was one of the last islands to come under the control of the Indonesian government in the early 1970s, leaving the old culture mostly intact to this day.
Shaman Charms, West Sumba Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Lamboya village, Early 20th c, Wood
Healing charms used in rituals. The shaman figures and their container have become smooth with a darkened patina from use and age. 3 ½” x 2” x 2” (container); 1 ¼” x ¾’ x ½” (each figure), $375. SOLD
Shaman Effigy, Sumba Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Late 19th c, Stone, pigment, cloth
Used for healing and to protect shaman from ghost spirits, 6 ½” x 5 ½” x 5”, $725. (see image below of both the above shaman figures together)
additional view of Shaman Effigy and Shaman CharmsShaman Drum, Sumba Island, Indonesia, Early to mid 20th c, Animal skin stretched over wood
Used by shaman to initiate and maintain a trance state during rituals, 17 ½” x 10 ½’ x 10”, SOLD
Hunting Spirit Guide, West Sumba Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Kodi village. Early to mid 20th c. Wood
Spirit guide figure to pray to before hunting or fishing. This piece has a nice patina from age and use. 7” x 6 ½” x 16”, SOLD
Shaman Figure with Alligator, West Sumba Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Kodi tribe, Mid to late 19th c, Wood
Used for protection rituals. 19 ¾” x 4 ¼” x 4”, $750.
Magic Amulet/Talisman Figure, West Sumba Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Anakalang village, Mid 20th c, Wood
Magic amulet used for healing rituals. SOLD
Shaman Magic Amulet Male Figure, West Sumba, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Anakalang village, Early 20th c, Wood.
Used for healing rituals. 7 ¾” x 2 ½” x 5 ¼”, $180. SOLD
Magic Figure, Woman with Child, West Sumba Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Late 19th c, Stone
Used to heal and protect woman and child. 5 ½” 7” x 3 ¼”, $230. SOLD
Hanging Effigy and Herb Bowl – set, East Sumba Island, Indonesia, Soru village, Early 20th c, Wood
The effigy hanger gives great healing power to the herbs placed in the coconut bowl suspended below it. The bowl has three bird figure and three carved faces with an amulet head hanging below it. 30” x 6” x 6”, $1200.
Shaman Healing Couple Effigy, West Sumba Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Anakalang village, Early to mid 20th c, Wood, fiber cloth
Used in healing rituals and to fix marriages. Dimensions: (left, male: 5 ¼” x 3 ¼” x 2”); (right, female: 5” x 3” x 2”), $420. sold as a pair
Healing Amulet/Talisman, Sumba Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 19th c, Stone
Patinated with use and age, this figure was used in healing rituals. 6 ½” x 2 ½” x 2 ½”, $370.
Shaman Healing Amulet/Talisman – Cow, Octopus, Monkey, Bird, West Sumba Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Early 20th c, Wood
This is an unusual piece. It is multi-sided and combines several different animals which become recognizable as you turn the piece. This view show a monkey. Its feet are duck-like bird heads. If you flip the piece over, it persents as the head of a cow and of an octopus depending on the angle you view it. Used in healing rituals, 10” x 16” x 13”, $600. (see image below for another angle showing the cow/octopus)
Alternate view of previous image – Shaman Healing Amulet/Talisman – Cow, Octopus, Monkey, BirdFemale Shaman Effigy, Sumba Island, 17th century, Stone
For healing related to childbirth, 5” x 3 ¾” x 4”, SOLD
Shaman Magic Medicine Bottle Stopper, East Sumba Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Mid 19th c, Wood
Talisman figure with child, used empower the healing medicine in the bottle. 3” x 1 ¼” x 1 ¼”, $80. SOLD
Shaman Staff, Sumba, Island, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Mid 20th c, Wood
Used in healing rituals. 35 ½ x 2 ¼” x 1 ½”, $700.
Effigy Mask Trap, East Sumba, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia, Tana Mabanas village, Late 19th to early 20th c, Coconut, wood, pigment
Hangs in shaman’s house. Gathers and traps black magic. The shaman will then perform a ritual to disperse them and to keep them from returning. 9 ½” x 8” x 10 ¾”, $700. (see below image for side view) SOLD
Borneo, home of the Dayak tribes is one of the largest islands in Indonesia, and is of volcanic origin. Their ancient belief system, like that across most of Indonesia, is Animistic – the belief that they are descendants of a bird/dragon/serpent. This is visually represented by the pervasive motifs in their art. Shaman are intrinsic to Dayak religion. They bring together the spirit world, the mortal world, and the underworld and thus serve to maintain the balance of life, protecting the community, and healing the sick. Although the Dayak are a peace loving people, they were historically feared by outsiders for their little understood practice of headhunting. In reality, a head is taken only after death during war, and is taken out of respect for the spirit.
‘Lupong Manang’ Shaman’s Medicine Carrier/Backpack with Healing Charm Figures (rare), East Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe. Late 19th to early 20th c, Wood, braided reed, feathers
The Shaman makes his own traveling medicine kit. It would typically contain items for healing, protections and predictions – such as special teeth, stones, herbs and other magical items. The figures on the exterior correspond to illnesses and other conditions or ailments. 17 ½” x 13” x 13”, $4800. SOLD
Shaman Figure with Cap, Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe Early 20th c, Ironwood
Used in healing rituals. 13” x ¾” x 8” x 6”, $390.
Shaman Healing Amulet, Necklace, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Mid 19th to early 20th c, Root wood pigmented with soot, shell, animal teeth, cloth pouches, glass beads, disk beads, patinated with age and use
Used for healing rituals. The amulets correspond to various illnesses and conditions. 26” x 8” x 2 ½”, $2400. (see image below for detail)
Detail View of Shaman Healing Amulet, Necklace (see previous image)Shaman Healing Fetish, Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Early 20th c, Wood, pigmented with soot
For healing rituals. 6 ½” x 13” x 10”, $250.
Shaman Amulet/Talisman Figures for Healing, Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Wood, :Late 19th to Mid 20th c
Dimensions/Info Left to Right: (Early 20th c. Wood, 4 ¾” x 1 ½” x 1 ½”, $90.) ; (Late 19th to early 20th c, Wood, stopper for medicine bottle – 5” x 2 ½” x 1 ½”, $90.); (Mid 20th c, Wood, Stopper for shaman’s medicine container, 5 ¾” x 1” x 1 ¼”, $130.); ( Early 20th c. Wood, Used for healing a child, 3 ¼” x 1” x 1 ¾”, $85.) (ALL 4 SOLD)
Shaman Healing Amulet/Talisman
Used for healing rituals. 4 ¾” x 4” x 5”. $70. SOLD
Shaman Healing Fetish with padlocks, Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak Tribe, Late 19th c, Wood, metal, shell, fiber netting
This is used by the shaman to contact the spirits for healing rituals. 16” x 6” x 5”, $1800.
Magic Protection Figure, Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Early to mid 19th c, Ironwood
This figure gives protection from harmful spirits. 35” x 21 ½” 8”, $1600.
Skull Necklace Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Early 20th c, Wooden Beads, Rodent Skull, darkened with soot
Worn for healing and protection rituals 17 ½” x 2 ¾” x 1 ¾”, $450.
Shaman Amulet/Talisman Figure (rare), Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Modang Dayak tribe, Early to mid 20th c, Wood
Zoomorphic or monkey figure amulet. $650 (sold as pair) Dimensions” (left – 7” x 1 ½” x 3 ¾”); (right – 7” x 1 ½” x ¾”) SOLD
Shaman Healing Fetish Rattle, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Early 20th c, Wood pigmented with soot
Used for healing rituals. 14” x 8” x 4”, $560.
Shaman Fetish Figure, Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Early 20th c, Wood pigmented with soot, animal hideShaman Figure with Red Skirt, Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak, Early 20th c, Wood, cotton cloth
Used for healing and protection.20” x 4” x 2”, $800.
Shaman Protector Figure, Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Early 20th c, Wood, cloth straps
Kept in the shaman’s home for his protection. 28” x 6” x 5 ½”, $1900.
Shaman Female Amulet Figure, Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Early 20th c, Ironwood
Used for healing treatments, 8 ¼” x 5” x 4”, $90. SOLD
Medicine Man Effigy Betel Nut Offering Figure, Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Early 20th c, Wood, cloth, paint
Used to hold betel nuts as a ritual offering to the deities.
13” x 4 ½” x 5”, $1200.
Used in healing rituals. The figure corresponds to specific illness or conditions. Dimensions and prices left to right: (left – 7 ¾” x 5 ¾” x 4”, $220.); tall middle – 10 ½” x 6 ½” x 2 ½”, $160.) SOLD; (light middle – 7 ½” x 2” x 2”, $210.); (right – 8 ½” x 5” x 4”, $190.)
Shaman Protection Figure, Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Modong Dayak tribe, Late 19th c, Wood darkened with soot
Shaman use these to protect themselves and villagers from evil creatures, 14” x 4 ¼” x 4”, $560.
Shaman Healing Amulet/Talisman, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Early 20th c, Wood pigmented with soot. SOLDShaman Healing Amulet/Talisman, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak Tribe, Late 19th c, Root wood, glass beads, pigmented with soot
Two sided figure. Used for healing rituals (double sided/two faces), 5” x 4 ½” x 4 ½”, $365.
Shaman Healing Fetish, Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Early to mid 20th c, Wood
Held in shaman’s hand during ritual for healing calling the spirits, 10 ½” x 4” x 3 ½”, $420.
‘Lupong Manang’ or Shaman’s Medicine Carrier/Backpack with Healing Amulet/Fetish Figures (rare), East Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia, Dayak tribe, Late 19th to early 20th c, Wood pigmented with soot, raffia, feathers, porcupine quills
Shaman made their own medicine kit backpacks to carry items for healing, protection and predictions such as special teeth, stones and other items. The healing amulet figures on the exterior correspond to illnesses and other conditions. 17” x 12 ½” x 15”, $3,900. (see below image for detail image of shoulder straps)
The Naga people are a collection of 35+ tribes, or about 3.5 million people, who live in the hills of Nagaland, India and in the bordering country of Myanmar. Their beliefs are animistic and shamanism is a respected, integral part of everyday life.
Shaman Effigy, Nagaland, India, Naga tribe, Early 20th c, Wood, pigment, shell
This figure was used in healing rituals and probably for connecting to ancestor spirits. There are seven creature images on the backside. The creature depictions are made by poking holes as an outline for each one.
14” x 5 ¾” x 2 ¾”, SOLD
Monkey Skull Amulet Necklace, Naga tribe, Nagaland, India, Mid to late 19th c, Bone, horn, fiber cord
This Macaque skull and goat horn amulet was worn by the shaman for healing rituals and likely for connecting to helpful spirits. It was passed down from shaman to shaman, worn for many generations
22” x 4 ½” x 2 ½”, $780. SOLD
Medicinal Mortar, Nagaland, India, Early 20th c, Wood
This shaman grinding bowl is for preparing healing medicinal herbs and other substances for remedies tailored for each patient. It is carved by the shaman with power designs that relate to healing rituals.
6 ½” x 4” x 4”, $190.
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MYANMAR
Burmese Medicine Blocks – Compressed Herbal Figurines, Myanmar/Burma, Late 19th c, Mixture of Dried, Pressed Herbs
These 3 figures are not Naga, but from the neighboring country of Myanmar. They are a mixture of herbs pressed into blocks and carved into figurines for healing potions/remedies. The Shaman follows precise rituals and recipes to make these medicine figures between 3:00 and 6:00 am only.
Once pressed and detailed into the tiny figurines, the shaman will use them many times by chipping off small bits from the bottom side to prepare the appropriate mixture and dosage of healing elixirs for patients. 2 ½” to 3″, Left to right – $375., $240., $395.
Nepal is home to many ethnic groups and religious traditions including Hinduism and Buddhism. Shamanism combines these religions with the worship of nature and natural phenomenon. There is a unique village, called “Lugum”, in Western Nepal whose only inhabitants, at the time of this writing, are 126 shaman – 18 of whom are women. In addition to their role as healers and intermediaries between the mortal and spiritual worlds, is a duty to protect the larger community around them from witches and harmful spirits, whose evil doings wreak havoc if not managed. It is the shaman’s roll to keep everything in balance to maintain the natural order of life. Scroll for images and captions of all the Nepal pieces from our “Balancing The Universe” exhibition. 9/10 – 12/3/17
Damaru with Chopin (2 sided drum with sash), late 19th and early 20th c, Wood, Hide, Fabric
This power drum, associated with Shiva, is used for tantric rituals and is played with a twisting motion so the two beaters – attached by cords, hit the drum heads simultaneously. It produces a rhythmic and spiritual sound by which the universe was created and is regulated. The Chopin (sash) is typically embroidered with the colors of the tantric elements and waves its colors as the drum is played. It is used to attract and dispel negative energy.
(large) 32” x 11 ¼” x 4 ½”; $700.; (small) 2” x 5 ¼” x 3” [case 6” x 5” x 3”] $500. SOLD
Phurba – Ritual Daggers, Early 20th c, Wood / Metal.
Not meant for stabbing or causing harm to humans, it is used to attract and dispel negative energy. After collecting the demons or evil spirits into the phurba, the shaman pierces the ground with the dagger dispersing or redirecting the harmful energy by releasing them from whatever was causing them to be evil.
Still used by Buddhists and shamans in Nepal, Tibet and the Himalayas, these magical daggers date back to at least the 7th or 8th century. Please see previous ‘Phurba’ blog entry for full history and information on individual pieces – price range is $190. to $650., or contact us for more photos, availability and pricing details.
Snake Vertabrae and Rudraksha Bead Naga Mala Necklace; Early 20th c; Bone, Rudraksha Seeds
Snake vertebrae prayer bead necklace, worn by shaman to invoke snake gods to protect themselves during healing rituals. From 18″ to 33″; $290 to 370. (see detail image below)
Detail of Naga Mala necklace of snake vertebrae and rudraksha beads, early 20th c
The Naga Mala are primarily used in healing ceremonies for protection against harmful spirits and to connect the shaman with the sacred snake gods and goddesses who help inform their work. The preparation of the snake bones, and of creating the necklace itself, involves an intricate sacred ritual to properly empower them. Rudraksha, meaning ‘Enlightened’, seeds symbolize divine wisdom and are traditionally used as prayer beads.
Yak Bell Hat Strap, mid 2oth c (some bells up to 150 years old), Plant Fiber, Indgo Cloth, Brass, Iron
Worn over the head piece and under the chin to secure the shaman’s ‘hat’; Indigo dyed cotton cloth covering a woven fiber band with attached conical and crotal bells. Used in healing rituals and to protect the shaman and the villagers from witches and other evil beings. Some of the bells are newer case brass, some are old hand forged iron.
18 ⅓” x 4 ½” x 1 ⅗”; $395.
Shaman Cuff Bracelet, Mid 19th c, Wood
Worn by shaman during rituals and ceremonies to protect themselves from witches and harmful spirits. Hand carved wood, 3 ¼” x 4 ¼” x 5 ¼”, $120. SOLD
Naga Mala ritual necklace, late 19th c, bone, Himalayan goat horn, Rudraksha seeds, old European glass trade beads, iron beads, brass crotal bells
The Naga Mala are primarily used in healing ceremonies for protection and to connect the shaman with the sacred snake gods and goddesses who help inform their work. The preparation of the snake bones and of the necklace itself, involves an intricate sacred ritual to properly empower them. The Rudraksha (enlightened) seeds symbolize divine wisdom and are traditionally used as prayer beads. The bells make a sound that evoke ancestor spirits and helps the shaman transition into a trance state for ceremonies., 22” x 7” x 1 ¾”, $750.
Sacred Ritual Drum with Bells, Mid to late 19th c, wood, hide, iron
The Yak bells and amulets facilitate entering and maintaining a trance state necessary for the shaman to perform rituals, 17 ½” x 8” x 8” (plus 7” bell chains), $1400.
Shaman Wand, Early 19th c., wood, metal, cotton cord, pigment
This Wand from Northwestern Nepal (near Lake Jumla) is a powerful shaman tool. Held in one hand while chanting, the shaman shakes it with short, quick jerks then taps it to the ground to cleanse the area from harmful spirits. 28” x 11” x 3 ¼”, $650. SOLD
Shaman Ceremonial Stools; Late 19th to mid 20th c; wood
Hand carved wood. They are used to sit slightly elevated off the ground for meditation and for ritual ceremonies.
12″ to 14″, $185. to $320.
Shaman Stools, late 19th to mid 20th c, Wood
Hand Carved Wooden Ceremonial Shaman Stools. They are used to sit slightly elevated off the ground for meditation and for ritual ceremonies, Mid 19th to early 20th century, 8″ to 14″, $95. to $190.
Ritual Necklace with Rare Large Anaconda Snake Bone, Western Nepal, Late 19th c, painted bone, brass, glass and quartz beads
This sacred shaman necklace is particularly rare because of the size of the snake vertebrae used. It is colorfully detailed with the old European handmade glass trade beads and old clear quartz beads, and the age and use worn small brass crotal bells. The pair of unusually large snake vertebrae are from a 20 foot anaconda. They have been painted green. The preparation of the snake bones and the necklace itself involves an intricate sacred ritual to properly empower them. The bell sound helps the shaman transition into a trance state in preparation for a ceremony and the snake bone connects them to ancestral spirits. 13” x 3 ¾” 1 ½”, $875. SOLD
The Naga Mala, primarily used in healing ceremonies, are for the shaman’s protection and to connect them with the snake gods and goddesses who help inform their work. The preparation of the snake bones and the necklace itself involve an intricate sacred ritual to properly empower them., The Rudraksha, meaning ‘enlightened’, seeds symbolize divine wisdom and are traditionally used as prayer beads. 22” x 7 ½” x 1 ¼”, $690.
Dhyango with Phurba Handle – Ritual 2 Sided Drum Drum, Early 19th c, Hide, Wood
Played by shaman (Jhakri), with a curved stick, to facilitate entering and maintaining the shaman’s trance state for their journey into the spirit world. A deity will often reside in the drum during the ritual. 26″ x 14″ x 6′, $900.
Ritual Apron Belt, Early 20th c, Leather, Iron, Brass, Horn, Tusk, Shell (some bells up to 150 years old)
This large belt is an essential part of all Nepalese shaman costumes. The belt, or apron, is heavy and loud with the many parts: hide leather, iron chain and hand crafted crotal, and cylindrical bells and bangles, and the brass conical bells. The cowrie shells, goat horn and wild boar tusk are all symbolic and spiritual tools. They are used in rituals to protect shaman, villagers and the area from witches and other evil beings. (it is a waist belt with hanging bells and over the shoulder cross straps). 58” x 32” x 3”, $3200.
Ritual Apron Belt, Early 20th c (some bells up to 150 years old), Leather, Iron, Brass, Yak hair
An essential part of Nepalese shaman costumes, this heavy apron belt is made of hide leather, iron chain and hand crafted cylindrical bells and bangles, brass conical and crotal bells. The yak tail, and other amulets which are attached, are powerful spiritual tools. They are worn during rituals and ceremonies to protect the shaman, the villagers, and the area from witches and other evil beings. (it is a waist belt with hanging bells and over the shoulder cross straps), 44” x 33” x 3”, $3200.
Shaman Amulet and Bell Necklace, Early 20th c, Iron, Brass, Leather, Shell
This leather amulet with the four cowrie shells and brass conical bells on a chain, is a sacred ritual necklace is worn to facilitate entering a trance state. The bells make a nice sound when worn or hung in the wind, that represents a caravan of yaks coming down a mountain, creating a magical link to their ancestors who migrated over the Himalayas from Tibet to Nepal, 28 ½” x 3 ¼” x 1”, $295.
Shaman Amulet and Bell Necklace, Early 20th c, Iron, Brass, Leather, Shell
This leather amulet with the four cowrie shells and brass conical bells on a chain, is a sacred ritual necklace is worn to facilitate entering a trance state. The bells make a nice sound when worn or hung in the wind, that represents a caravan of yaks coming down a mountain, creating a magical link to their ancestors who migrated over the Himalayas from Tibet to Nepal, 28 ½” x 3 ¼” x 1”,$295.
Shaman wear loud bells to facilitate entering a trance state necessary for their practice. Makes a nice sound when worn or hung in the wind, that represents a caravan of yaks coming down a mountain, creating a magical link to their ancestors who migrated over the Himalayas from Tibet to Nepal, 15″ to 21″, $230. to 290. SOLD
Part of the shaman’s costume worn during rituals and ceremonies to protect them from witches and harmful spirits. Bells and amulets are often attached to the chain. 15″ to 21″, $110. to $130.
