For sale as part of a collection clear-out. This is a carving called a Hampatong, made by the Dayak people who live on the island of Borneo (Kalimantan) in Indonesia. The Dayak, also known as headhunters, incorporated many shamanistic elements into their daily lives, and this statue is a product of their unique culture. The Hampatong is a guardian deity statue that protects villages and homes, and was placed in front of the entrance to the village or house. It was believed that this would prevent the intrusion of disease. This one is modeled after a male figure, but there are many types of Hampatong, including those modeled after women and monkeys. In addition to being enshrined as objects of worship, Hampatong are also used in the Kwangkey ceremony, which mourns the dead. When someone dies in the village, a shaman creates a Hampatong modeled after the deceased and prays for the soul of the deceased to journey to the afterlife. Afterwards, the statue is placed in front of the house to inform the people of the village of the death. Due to the nature of the object, Hampatong are placed outdoors and exposed to the elements, so in many cases they decay. This Hampatong also has some decayed parts on the base, but is in generally good condition. Size: Approximately 60cm tall As this is an old item, there are scratches and stains due to aging. Please take a close look at the photos and purchase with the understanding that no claims or returns are accepted. Due to the large size of the item, it will take some time to ship. Please note that it will be shipped by Yamato Transport (Kuroneko Yamato) with the shipping charges to be paid by the buyer. Subject...Buddhist statue/Shinto statue Material...Wood carving