Antique Borneo Dayak Stone Sculpture of a A Man Curled Up by a Snake

A Borneo Dayak stone sculpture of a man entwined by a snake is a captivating piece of art that embodies the deep spiritual and cultural symbolism of the Dayak people, indigenous to Borneo. Carved from stone or petrified wood, the sculpture typically features a human figure in a curled or crouched position, enveloped by the coils of a large snake. The stone medium enhances the piece’s sense of permanence and ancient energy, with intricate details etched into the petrified wood or stone surfaces to depict scales, muscle definition, and expressive features on the man’s face.

The man appears vulnerable yet resilient, his posture often suggesting a mix of struggle and submission, while the snake coils around him, creating an interplay of strength and tension. The textures carved into the sculpture—smooth where the snake’s body curves and rugged where the man’s expression or musculature is depicted—add depth and tactile contrast. In Dayak beliefs, snakes are often seen as symbols of protection, mystery, or transition, and the piece could reflect themes of balance between humanity and nature, as well as the profound reverence for the powerful creatures of the rainforest. This sculpture is not only an artifact but a narrative in stone, revealing the intricate relationship between humankind, nature, and spiritual symbolism in Dayak culture.

H – 10 x 9 x 8.5 cm / 752 g

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