Mini Mamuli Tongal

The man’s wooden pouch, known as a tongal, is a fine example of traditional Sumba woodcarving and an essential element of male ceremonial dress. Worn knotted at the waist, the tongal carries money, tobacco, lime, and other treasured personal items, including the revered ear ornaments known as mamuli. Carved along the sides of this tongal, the mamuli motif represents women as life givers; its form echoes the female reproductive organ and symbolizes fertility, continuity, and the balance between masculine and feminine forces in Sumba culture.

Sumbanese Tobacco Lime (Betel Quid Paraphernalia) or Gem Box Container Carrier, circa 20th century
Origin: Sumba
Material: Polished wood, made of two parts set in dark wood, light wooden bottom), with two buttons on the sides to attach ties
Dimension: 17 x 13,5 x 4 cm