Premium Maître Christophe HERBELIN
101
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Ancestral effigy post — Ai Tos.
See original version (French)
101
-
Ancestral effigy post — Ai Tos.
See original version (French)
Estimate €800 - €1,200
Voluntary lot
Description
Ancestral effigy post — Ai Tos.
Wood, areas of old brown patina, signs of wear, minor weathering, cracks.
Belu (Tetum), East Timor.
Height: 120 cm
Ai Tos are poles or effigies dedicated to ancestors, particularly founding ancestors. They might have been placed near villages, on altar platforms or in sacred spaces, and were the recipients of prayers and offerings intended to ensure protection, prosperity and fertility for the community.
On this example, the ancestral figure, depicted standing with hands resting on the abdomen, is extended by five superimposed rings deeply carved with geometric motifs. This decorative repertoire finds interesting parallels in the patterns of traditional ceremonial textiles from Timor. The signs of wear visible on the face and forearms, as well as the wear on the lower part, bear witness to long-standing use and an ancient provenance.
Comparative bibliography: Ruy Cinatti, *Motivos Artísticos Timorenses e a sua integração*, 1987, ill. 41.
Expert: Mr Serge REYNES
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
About the sale
CIVILISATIONS OF THE FIVE CONTINENTS
Auction location
Auction time
10/14/2026 at 1:30 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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