Description

Traditional use:
Miniature carvings often depict spirits responsible for illnesses and were used by shamans to remove and house malevolent spirits during healing ceremonies. Such carvings were then disposed of in the rivers or in deep forests.

Contemporary use:
As collectors' items; tribal art. These carvings are now difficult to come by as many elder carvers have passed on, or have discontinued carving.

This particular sculpture depicts naga ikan or "fish dragon", a mythical creature which the Jah Het believes dwells in the ocean but is able to swim upriver.

Artisan: Alim Pitung
Artisan age: 30s
Ethnic group: Jah Het (Orang Asli)

Dimensions: 84 cm (l) x 6 cm (w) x 10 cm (h)
Weight: 1 kg
Type of wood: Merbau, with wax finish

Source: Kg. Sg. Koi, Kuala Krau, near Jerantut, Pahang (Peninsular Malaysia)