Monumental pieces · carved wooden guardian figure
Hampatong — Guardian of the Threshold
Monumental Dayak-style carved wooden guardian figure, Borneo.
Storytelling
Standing one metre tall, Guardian of the Threshold recalls the monumental hampatong figures carved by Dayak communities of Borneo. These anthropomorphic wooden figures were traditionally created for specific spiritual purposes. Some stood near entrances, pathways and village boundaries, where they were believed to protect the community from harmful spirits and illness.
With its imposing frontal stance, circular eyes and deeply weathered surface, this figure carries the visual language of watchfulness and protection associated with that tradition.
Documented. Material, availability and reference as listed above; origin as reported by the source. The photographs show the object complete.
Not claimed. Maker, date or attribution beyond the reported origin. No antique, ritual or museum status is implied.
Back to Monumental pieces or the collection. Background in context. Reading: Borneo, Made by Hand. For projects, see sourcing.