Enquiry about object: 9322
Batak Copper-Inlaid Cast Brass Singa Ornament
Batak people, Lake Toba region, North Sumatra, Indonesia 19th century or earlier
width: 10cm, length: 7.9cm, weight: 90g
Provenance
UK art market
This fine cast and engraved brass element from a Raja’s belt, insignia necklace or bag is in the form of a stylised, protective singa or lion mask. It is inlaid with three copper ‘eyes’.
Cast with loops on the sides and on the top, the element would have been attached to brass chains.
Similar elements can be seen with attached brass chains in Sibeth (1991, p. 174). A very similar example is illustrated in Sibeth (2012, p. 31).
The example here is in fine condition. Its significant age is very clear.
References
Sibeth, A., The Batak: Peoples of Island Sumatra, Thames & Hudson, 1991.
Sibeth, A., Gold, Silver & Brass: Jewellery of the Batak in Sumatra, Indonesia, 5 Continents, 2012.
