Toba Batak Singa House Ornament, Sumatra, Indonesia 20th Century, Ex-Sotheby's

Very important “Nwantamtay” dance African mask, consisting of three sections: The upper in plain rectangular shape surmounted by a crescent shape moon, the middle with beautiful geometric triangles in black bitumen and white kaolin, surrounding a red cruciform in the centre of remarkable contrasting colors, and the lower part or face inscribed in a circular space that inspired numbered great artists like Joan Miro, Picasso and Henry Moore of a very strongly solar symbolism, with a projecting protuberance emanating from the forehead like a sculpted bird beak, that descents toward the mouth. Concentric eyes harmonize with the circular mouth, both with of elegant proportions. The whole mask exudes a supreme harmony and perfect balance rarely seen in this pieces. The back-side presents nice ware that attested the ancient origin and traces of animistic ceremonies as the use of animal blood residues. The painting of brown bitumen or cola, the natural colorants in red and ocher tones and the white kaolin are original and do not show any repainted or restored areas, giving a freshness rarely seen in old pieces. This exceptional mask Bwa, of the Hound`e Region in Burkina-Fasso, was used it the transit ceremonies and funerals manifesting the presence of “Do”, name given to their God sons, protectors and powerful spirits. The round face also represents an owl, the curving beak of the bird plants a seed into the sun, like a female sexual vulva being fecundated by the male organ; the eternal symbol of Ying and Yang, masculine and feminine, and the quest of life and death. This mask of Primitive facture can be compared to the one in the celebrated Verite Collection (this one being larger) sold in Paris at the Hotel Drouot, Saturday June 17, Lot 59, for 80,000 Euros and remarkably stands out from the Pierre and Tannia Matisse sold in Sotheby’s, New York in May 13, 2011. Another similar piece was published in: “Arman et l’art africain...

Very beautiful mask with large pronounced eyes with the circular cavity shape. The mask depicts a nocturnal bird that can see in the darkness and manifest the presence of divinities ...

An antique hand carved tribal shield from the Batak people, northern Sumatra, called a Singa Singa. This antique hand-carved tribal shield, known as a Singa Singa, from the Batak people of northern Sumatra, captivates with its charismatic presence and intricate design. This large sculpture, one of the most iconic images of Batak tradition, was originally placed in the corners of traditional houses adorned with boat-shaped roofs. The Singa Singa is distinguished by its high forehead and angular traits, accentuated by traces of black and red polychromy that add depth and character to its appearance. The delicate painted scrolling decor and the skillful craftsmanship make this Singa Singa a riveting piece, perfect for enhancing any wall. Its historical and cultural significance, combined with its striking aesthetic, ensures it will be a captivating conversation piece. The sculpture's commanding presence can also be showcased by mounting it on a base, allowing it to stand out as a focal point in any room. Ideal for various settings, this Batak tribal...

A large antique hand carved tribal sculpture from the Batak People, northern Sumatra, called a Singa Singa. Behold the striking allure of this large antique hand-carved Singa Singa, ...