Very RARE Roof ornament from house of Sumba. The peak of a Sumba house, also called Labe, is a characteristic of traditional Sumba architecture. It is a central, high-rise roof that symbolizes the connection between the world of the living and the spirit world. The roof is made of thatch (alang-alang) and has a shape that somewhat resembles the central peak of a Javanese joglo, but is much sharper. Superb original condition with natural patina from aging. This beautiful house fragment was hand carved by local artisans on the island of Sumba in Indonesia, made as per ancient techniques. Labe means pumpkin in Indonesian. Labe's are symbols of prosperity, growth, friendship and family, due to their resilient nature and the way that several fruits are connected through a vine which provides the pumpkins with nutrition from the ground. It’s believed that the pumpkin helps us create lasting, prosperous connections with others. The statue comes complete on its black metal stand. The handmade metal support carries its own authenticity, with some imperfections and a natural patina to emerge over time.