Twin Boat Sumba Staff

Before the Dutch arrived, the people of Sumba lived in autonomous clans, governing their territories and resolving conflicts through warfare. In the early 20th century, the Dutch established centralized governance, appointing noble leaders as kings in regions called swapraja. These kings, recognized by the Dutch, were given staffs as symbols of their authority. Beyond this, staffs in Sumba also held spiritual significance, often used by shamans in rituals and ceremonies to connect with ancestral spirits or perform sacred rites. This dual role of the staff reflected its importance in both governance and traditional culture.

Marapu Tribe Staff, circa 1990
Origin: Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara
Material: Wooden Carving and Coconut Fibre
Dimension: 14,5 x 3 x 127 cm
Condition: Pristine

Condition Guide
Perfect: Items are in perfect condition
Pristine: It may show lightening, small stains and damage Antiques: Condition is relative to age, since imperfections are what give vintage pieces their special character