“Many Dayak groups carve anthropomorphic ancestral figures, generally called hampatong...There is tremendous range in these sculptures, and specific function and use vary according to ethnic group...the spirits of these ancestors are invoked for protection. Hampatong are placed in front of long [communal] entrances or other places where malevolent spirits are likely to appear." (Feldman 1985:118) "Each hampatong was carved for a specific purpose and personified a particular spirit or deity... the spirit of the deceased had to inhabit the hampatong before it could begin its long and dangerous journey to the next world." (Capistrano 1994: 26)

Provenance:
Bruce Frank, New York 2003