1891 Stunning Antique Toraja Ornament with Figures

Antique Tau Tau Necklace from Toraja

Rare. Collectible.

Six beautiful handcrafted bone figures. Could be worn as a necklace. 

With TauTau-like figures that are used in ceremonies to honor ancestors. Tau tau are usually 4 feet tall. The small ornaments  in this listing replicate the large ritual Tau Tau figures and are worn by priests. Also worn sometimes by male dancers who are specially invited to traditional ceremonies.

Note the two central pieces with crowns are different from the others in two aspects: first the headdress is different and second their feet are different. The feet of the other figures appear to be pegs that have to be placed into something - while the two central figures have feet-like shapes.

Estimated to be from the mid 1900s or before. 

Size: The tallest figure is 9 cm in height.

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This item has spent a lifetime being used for the purpose of its creation with the original artist/user. Signs of this life lived heartily may be present on the piece in the form of stains, thread loss, loose threads, holes, tears, color run and other imperfections. Therefore the condition must be assumed to be “not” perfect. More photos of such imperfections will be provided on request.

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