TIMOR STATUES
Timorese art, though lesser-known within Indonesian tribal art, boasts a rich tradition of intricately carved anthropomorphic statues. Small statues grace homes, serving ritual or altar purposes, while larger ones mark property boundaries and offer protection. Elongated posts, central to ceremonial altars, are deeply tied to ancestor veneration, believed to house ancestral spirits. Crafted primarily from wood—and occasionally stone, terracotta, or metal—these statues are adorned with decorative motifs, reflecting the diversity of Timorese artistry.
Rooftop sculptures, crowning traditional huts, blend decorative and apotropaic roles. Often depicting ancestor heads, birds, or animals, they safeguard dwellings and their inhabitants, embodying both cultural and spiritual significance. Explore our collection to discover the enduring beauty and symbolism of Timorese statuary.
