Dayak Ancestor Figure, Borneo, Indonesia

Collected in situ by Anthony Plowright, 1970s
John Giltsoff, London, acquired from the above
Allan Stone, New York, acquired from the above

Very good condition for an object of this great age and rare type. Weathered and eroded from exposure in situ and probably a period of submersion in water. Eroded age cracks, channels, and cavities from insect damage, including cavities in the head as seen in catalogue illustration, including a lateral open cavity behind the face running from the top of the head, through the neck, and into the torso, with openings under the eyes as shown in catalogue illustration; a vertical cavity running down the spine; and other vertical cavities and cracks running through the pelvis, legs, and integrally carved plinth. Wood is very dense so cracks and cavities are stable. Marks, nicks, scratches, abrasions, and small chips. Rubbing along bottom edges from insertion into modern base. Extraordinarily fine dark brown glossy patina.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The monumental anthropomorphic post statues of Inland Borneo, often generically referred to as hampatong, were according to Taylor (1991: 158) created "either to commemorate a deceased member of the village or to mark the taking of an enemy head in warfare. [...] Hampatong-like figures are known from a number of widely scattered areas of Kalimantan.  [...] The use of such monumental anthropomorphic figures is an example of similar traditions appearing among diverse Dayak groups, but a more precise classification of the relationships that exist among the numerous styles has yet to be made."  These figures were often erected in separate shrine areas, and sometimes had a protective function.  The beautifully eroded surface of the present figure suggests that it was probably submerged in water for a period of time in situ before its collection.