Naga TOTEM, North-East India, 19th Century

About the Item

Coming from the area of influence of the Naga people, this stunning piece is an extraordinary example of their cultural views. The Nagas are a conglomeration of different tribes native to the northeastern part of India and northwestern part of Myanmar. Although they speak over 89 different languages and dialects –mostly unintelligible with each other-, they share a similar culture and customs. They have a strong warrior tradition and are recognized as expert artisans. Traditionally, totems have been associated with divine and magic powers attributed to a sacred animal which serves as protector of the tribe. Among the Nagas, these large panels, hewn from enormous logs of wood, were placed on village gates, ceremonial posts, house fronts, and morungs, that is, a particular Community hall, as they were intended to be seen immediately on entry. Carved symbols proclaimed social status and wealth, courage and skill at warfare, and were intended to inspire respect among peers and fear in enemies. Representing Mithun, an endemic buffalo species appreciated for their milk and meat, the five pairs of horns on this TOTEM symbolize the relative prosperity and fertility of the tribe and their strength to resist other clan's attacks.

Dimensions:
Height: 90.56 in (230 cm)Width: 27.56 in (70 cm)Depth: 7.88 in (20 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Wood,Carved
Place of Origin:
India
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
19th Century
Condition:
Seller Location:
Mexico City, MX
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU3531310730063