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Naga TOTEM, North-East India, 19th Century

About the Item

Coming from the area of influence of the Naga people, this monolithic piece is a marvelous example of their cultural views. A conglomeration of tribes native to the northeastern part of India and northwestern part of Myanmar, the Nagas speak over 89 different languages and dialects and share a similar culture and customs. Recognized as expert craftsmen, they hold a strong warrior tradition, as this piece demonstrates. 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 specie appreciated for their milk and meat, the number 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: 75.6 in (192 cm)Width: 26.78 in (68 cm)Depth: 6.7 in (17 cm)
  • Style:
    Tribal (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    19th Century
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    Mexico City, MX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU3531310817603
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