Mother and Child Figure

Sumba Island, Indonesia
Estimated Date: Mid-20th Century
Material: Hand-carved hardwood with deep, aged patina
Dimensions: 17 × 8 × 4 cm
Height with Stand: 22 cm
Weight: 224 g

Price include custom base and shipping worldwide by DHL.

This finely carved Mother and Child Figure originates from the island of Sumba, Indonesia, a region renowned for its enduring ancestral traditions and expressive wooden sculpture. Rendered in a strikingly minimalist style, the figure depicts a seated female holding an infant securely against her torso, embodying themes of fertility, protection, continuity, and maternal devotion.

The sculpture is distinguished by its oversized rounded head, angular facial features, and elongated seated form, all characteristic of the highly stylized aesthetic found in many traditional Sumbanese carvings. The serene expression, narrow eyes, and simplified anatomy lend the figure a contemplative presence, while the intimate positioning of the child emphasizes the enduring bond between mother and offspring.

Carved from a single piece of hardwood, the surface displays a rich dark patina acquired through age and handling. Subtle wear across the raised areas enhances the sculpture’s sculptural depth and attests to its history of use and preservation. The restrained geometry of the composition creates a powerful visual balance, transforming a simple domestic theme into a symbol of ancestral continuity and human connection.