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19th C. Sulawesi Toraja Wood Granary Door Man Riding A Cow. Measure 36" X 23". The Toraja are one of the oldest ethnic groups in all of Indonesia, though they did not view themselves as an ethnic group until the early 20th century. The Dutch colonial government named the people "Toraja" in 1909 as a means of identifying which ethnic groups they controlled during the period of Dutch colonization. The word "Toraja" comes from the Bugis Buginese language term "to riaja, " meaning "people of the uplands." Torajans are renowned for their elaborate funeral rites, burial sites carved into rocky cliffs, massive and traditional peaked-roof houses known as tongkonan, and colorful wood carvings. Doors like this example provided passage between two rooms in a Torajan house. Behind the door was a special room – known as a "sumbung" – used to lay out the dead before funerals. The likeness of a buffalo was oftentimes used on these doors as an auspicious symbol due to their defensive natures and adamant dispositions, and the staff between the horns is symbolic of protection or defense for the dwelling and those within. This lot, and many forthcoming are from the estate of a true antiquity connoisseur in every sense of the word. This antiquarian truly enjoyed the treasures collected as well as world travel, humanitarianism, and missionary work. This monumental Central Florida collection compiled in their lifetime of art and cultural touchstones is presented in this and many more future sales. Please carefully read our terms of sale, shipping information, and request any condition reports or photos prior to placing a bid. Any condition statement is given as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. RBFineArts CFL INC. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. Please email for a condition report and photos, if desired. Emails should be received at least 48 hours in advance of the date of the auction.
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