Toponk Wooden Bag

Toponk bag from West Borneo is a traditional Dayak artifact intricately carved from lepung or jelutong wood, known for its lightweight yet durable properties. Adorned with the Kamang motif, depicting ancestral faces or figures, the carvings serve as spiritual guardians, believed to protect the owner and ward off malevolent forces. These bags are both functional and ceremonial, traditionally used for carrying personal or ritual items while symbolizing the owner’s connection to their ancestors and the spiritual realm.

Dayak Ritual Bag, circa 1970
Origin: West Borneo
Material: Lempung / Jelutong wood and woven rope straps accented with white cloth
Dimension:
Height 48 cm
Diameter 22 cm