Batak ritual staff ID139
The top part of a Tunggal Panaluan, the magic staff used by Batak shamans. Carved in rainbow shower tree wood (cassia javanica), it has been found cleared of its coiffe and dirt residues. It has now a beautiful smooth shiny patina due to years of handling.
Read this Wiki page to learn about its significance.
Toba Batak culture, Samosir island, Sumatra, Indonesia.
Early 20th century.
65 cm high.