Long Twin Tongkonan Wooden Carving

Tongkonan, the traditional house of the Toraja in South Sulawesi, is a powerful symbol of cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions. Its distinctive boat-shaped roof reflects the legend of Torajan ancestors arriving by sea. The Pa’kapu Baka motif, found on the upper right, resembles the knots of a basket lid, a symbol of unity, harmony, and the safeguarding of family prosperity. Below it, the Pa’Sekong Kandaure motif reflects the grandeur and grace of Torajan women, inspired by the kandaure, a ceremonial beaded ornament worn during traditional rituals. At the center, the Pa’Tedong motif, depicting buffalo horns, represents strength, dignity, and wealth, values highly esteemed in Torajan culture.

Toraja, circa 1970
Material: Uru wood and Paint
Dimension: 50 x 58,5 x 1 cm