Flores Wooden Paddle Set

Waerebo ancestors are long believed to have journeyed across islands before finally settling in Flores. Because of this maritime past, the paddle is regarded as a significant ancestral heirloom, serving as a reminder of their identity as sailors and travelers. This set of three carved paddles carries layered symbolic meanings. The human figure represents the ancestors themselves, honoring lineage and origin. The circle motif signifies the cycle of life, continuity, and the unbroken connection between past, present, and future. The horse, long used as a primary means of transportation in eastern Indonesia, stands as a powerful symbol of strength, mobility, and resilience. Together, these paddles embody memory, movement, and ancestral strength, marking the journey that shaped Waerebo’s people and culture.

Artist: Ballac Kuleng
Origin: Nangalili, Manggarai, Flores
Material: Burned Acacia Wood
Dimension:
Human (left) – 112 x 15 x 3 cm
Circle (center) – 97 x 15 x 2,5 cm
Horse (right) – 111,5 x 16 x 3 cm