The island of Timor gave rise to a distinctive tradition (or traditions) of masks whose precise origins and significance remain uncertain. There is not a dedicated litterature, the little information I have got it comes from a patient work of interviews to elderly of different Belu and Atoni villages (see my interview at the shaman of Billa village): according to them, masks portray both male and female ancestors, they were worn by warriors to scare enemies during the fights, were worn by men during a variety of ceremonies, like harvest ceremonies and ceremonies for the celebrations of victory in war. They were also put on the altar during the sacrifices; in some areas masks were put inside the huts to protect the household from evil spirits. They were worn to hide ones face during raids to other villages or even neighbors in time of hunger.

Pig skull carved Mask - complete with jaw - TIMOR-

TRIBAL RITUALISTIC CARVED PIG BOAR SKULL CEREMONIAL

TRIBAL RITUAL SKULL TIMOR ANTIQUE SCRIMSHAW OCEANIC2.jpg

CARVED PIG SKULL MASK TIMOR SCRIMSHAW.jpg

TIMOR BELU ATONI ANTIQUE RITUAL SKULL TRIBAL.jpg

Pig skull carved Mask - complete with jaw - TIMOR-

$0.00

MEASUREMENTS: 7.9" x 5.1" x 3.5" (cm 20 x 13 x 9 ).

Old pig skull, complete with mandible, carved on the top with a face and traditional Timorese geometric patterns. These skulls come from ritually sacrificed animals. In many Timorese areas, after the libation, the skulls of the animals were carved and hung from the ceiling of the hut. They were preserved in this way to remind the ancestors of the offerings made in their honor and to call upon them in times of need. Shipping:

Quantity:

Add To Cart