Atoni Amulet Carved Skull Plate (Timor)

An unusual carved bone (animal skull) representing a masculine face and bust with scarifications representing tattoos. The mask is neatly incised and pierced with a human face bearing a grim expression marked by almond-shaped eyes, a broad nose, and downturned crescent mouth. The neck and chest are adorned with a incised lozenge-patterned and elaborate geometric design with circular, lozenge, and angular scroll elements.

The Timorese, people of Indonesia traditionally and ritually kill animals for ceremonies such as weddings and funerals, and as a supplementary food source. True to making the best use of the materials at hand Timor has a long tradition of carving bone and horn to imbibe them with the Atoni’s totemic guardian spirits. Skulls are inscribed and carved for various purposes. Generally it is to do with the crop success and the general wealth of the owner. There are two main bone carving villages high in the mountains of central West Timor who provide the needs of the entire western half of the island.” Ref: Galerie Wit, Amsterdam.

Specs:
Country:  Belu region, Timor, Indonesia
Date: Late 19th / early 20th century
Material: Bone
Height: 27 cms
Width: 15 cms

Condition:
Very good condition with natural yellowing of bone.