Buffalo Head Wooden Ornament

This buffalo head ornament is a traditional architectural element found on the walls of Ruma Bolon, the traditional house of the Batak people. Symbolizing glory and strength, the buffalo is revered as a powerful and majestic animal in Batak culture. Its prominent horns are not just decorative, they convey a warning: those who disturb or do harm will face its might. The design is richly adorned with foliate motifs that swirl along the face, emphasizing fluidity and divine energy. At the center, a carved ancestral figure stands firmly, symbolizing the Batak people’s deep reverence for their forebears and their continued protection over the household. More than a striking visual, this ornament serves as a protective emblem, projecting honor while warding off negative forces from the household.

Bolon Ornament, Batak Tribe , repro 2000
Origin: Samosir, North Sumatra
Material: Wooden carving
Dimension: 32 x 17,5 x 7 cm