Container - Wood - Guri, Hornbill, Geest,

A hand-carved wooden ritual bottle or container, stylistically bearing strong similarities to traditional woodcarving from Indonesia, in particular from the Dayak people of Borneo.

The detachable stopper is carved in the shape of a bird’s head, probably a hornbill. In many Southeast Asian cultures, the hornbill is a sacred symbol representing the connection between the earthly world and the spirit world.

On the front of the bottle, a human face (or a spirit figure) can be seen with large, round eyes and an open mouth. This type of figure, often called "Aso" by the Dayak, serves as a protector against malevolent influences.

The lower part of the bottle is decorated with complex, curly motifs that are typical of Dayak aesthetics.

Equipped with a braided carrying cord.

Such wooden bottles, often equipped with a cord for carrying, served several functions:
- Medicinal bottle (Guri): For storing medicinal oils, herbs, or magical substances by a shaman or medicine man.
- Ritual storage: For keeping important seeds or other offerings for ceremonies.
- Status object: A testament to craftsmanship and the spiritual protection of the owner.

Condition:
In good vintage condition with natural drying cracks in the wood, which contribute to the object's authentic character.
The object is carved from a single piece of wood, as seen by the natural cracks and the growth rings at the bottom.
The cord has been threaded through holes in the wood, suggesting it was intended to be carried or hung.

Dimensions & Weight:
Height: 24 cm.
Mid diameter: 14 cm.
Base diameter: 8 cm.
Weight: 320 grams.

The lot will be carefully packed and sent by registered mail, insured with a track-and-trace number.
Collection by arrangement is also possible.