A BATAK MAGIC GUNPOWDER HORN 'SALEMPANG'

Provenance: Philip and Rosalind Goldman

The Batak of northern Sumatra comprise six groups: the Toba, Mandaling, Angkola, Pakpak/Dairi, Simalingun, and Karo. All share a common origin myth and ancestor ( Si Raja Batak), have similar kinship and marriage customs, employ a common language and script, and emphasize certain ritual practices. Until the mid-twentieth century, political power was in the hands of chiefs and the council of elders, while spiritual power resided with the priest (Datu), who had great influence on Batak life. These magic horns were called 'Salempang' 

Batak, North Sumatra, Indonesia
Wood, 12 cm

Price: Sold