Indonesian Artist, Sanggori Headdresses, Brass and Copper Alloy, 20th Century, Set of 2

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Pair of “Sanggori” headdresses, brass and copper alloy, tribal art, 19th century. XX – Indonesia

Exceptional pair of sanggori, made … Read more Pair of “Sanggori” headdresses, brass and copper alloy, tribal art, 19th century. XX – Indonesia

Exceptional pair of sanggori, made by local artisans from the Toraja people (previously known as Celebes), in Central Sulawesi (Indonesia). These fine amulets are made with a brass and copper alloy, following a stylized coiled spiral or snake shape, slightly convex on both sides. They are presented on a slender wrought iron base to be displayed.

These sinuous pieces originated in the late Bronze Age and were traditionally worn by village chiefs during ceremonies and in battle, as a symbol of prestige and power. They were believed to confer magical and protective powers to their wearer. The brilliance of a well-polished Sanggori was considered strong enough to blind the enemy and exorcise demons. The Sanggori spiral usually ends with the head of a snake, considered a powerful animal related to the underworld. They were also among the ritual offerings used in ceremonies to promote rain during drought and to adorn wooden funerary statues. When not in use, they were placed in the sanctuary or altar of the home.

When sanggori came to the attention of European visitors around 1900, the ability to produce them had already been lost. Specimens are preserved in important museums, such as the National Gallery of Australia, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York\.

Material: Brass and copper alloy / Forged foot
Period: Early 20th century
Country of origin: Sulawesi, Indonesia
Good condition based on age and use.
Large dimensions: 37.5 x 16 x 5.2 cm.
Small dimensions: 25 x 14 x 5.2 cm. See less