Dayak Tunjung Double-Figure Spiritual Charm

Dayak Tunjung Double-Figure Spiritual Charm

East Kalimantan, Borneo | Wood  | Traditional ritual object

Dimensions: H. 33 × W. 14 × D. 7 cm
Height including base: 39 cm
Weight: 657 g

A rare and exceptionally evocative Dayak Tunjung spiritual charm, carved in the form of two elongated human figures emerging from a single sculptural body. The figures are intimately joined, their arms crossing and embracing the central form, while an iron ring encircles the waist. The unusual double-figure composition gives the piece a compelling sense of unity, spiritual connection and protective power.

The carving is deliberately austere yet remarkably expressive. Both figures possess large, rounded eyes, strongly articulated noses and deeply incised mouths, producing an intense, almost supernatural presence. Their elongated bodies and attenuated limbs reflect the characteristic abstraction found in traditional Dayak ritual sculpture, where the representation of the human form is often concerned less with anatomical realism than with conveying spiritual essence and potency.

The charm would have been regarded within its traditional context as a spiritually charged protective object, intended to provide safeguarding and support to its owner or community. Anthropomorphic charms of this nature could serve as intermediaries between the human and supernatural realms, with their efficacy understood through the spiritual qualities embodied in the carved figure. Mounted on a simple custom display base, the sculpture achieves a commanding presence while retaining the raw, intimate quality of an indigenous ritual carving.