Batak Standing Female Fertility Figure

Solemn figure in a flat headband, hands cupped over its chest.

This standing female fertility figure is Batak, from Sumatra, Indonesia, and dates to the 20th century. It is cast bronze. The Batak peoples of Sumatra have a rich tradition of carved and cast figures, which are often linked with ancestors, protection and the continuity of families. Dark, smooth standing figure with a flat-topped headband, long nose and ears flaring at the sides. Both hands curve over the chest with fingers carved in lines. The legs are short and straight, ending in small incised toes. It is 1.25 inches wide, 0.75 deep and 5 high.

Formal bearing from head to toes, down to the toes.