Njara Wooden Tongal (Small Size)

Sumbanese Tobacco Lime (Betel Quid Paraphernalia) or Gem Box Container Carrier

The man’s wooden pouch, or tongal, is a great example of traditional woodcarving and is a staple of Sumba’s traditional male clothing. Money, tobacco lime and other precious tiny possessions, such as the revered traditional ear jewels known as mamuli, are carried in tongals, which are worn knotted at the waist.

Sumba, 20th Century

Material: polished wood, made of two parts set in dark wood, light wooden bottom), with two buttons on the sides to attach ties
Size: 18 x 26 x 3 cm