Indonesian figurine

Item Description:
This is a hand-carved wooden figure purchased in Bali, Indonesia, in 2000. The piece was said to have originated from a village on one of the Indonesian islands, possibly Timor. The sculpture is crafted in a distinctive tribal or ethnic art style, characterized by exaggerated facial features and a stylized, abstract body structure.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Indonesian tribal art, especially from islands such as Timor, Sulawesi, and Bali, is known for its symbolic carvings that reflect ancestral reverence, spirituality, and traditional folklore. Carvings like this often served ritual, ceremonial, or decorative purposes. Timor carvings in particular often feature exaggerated facial features, elongated limbs, and symbolic motifs.

In the 20th century, Balinese and Indonesian village carvings became highly sought after by collectors of ethnic art. Unfortunately, the modern tourist market has shifted toward factory-made items, making authentic, hand-crafted village pieces increasingly rare and desirable.

Condition:

• Condition: Excellent
• No visible cracks, chips, or structural damage. The finish appears well-maintained, contributing to its value.

Estimated Value:

Based on similar Indonesian tribal carvings from Timor and surrounding islands:

• Estimated Value (Retail or Gallery Price): $75–$150 CAD
• Estimated Value (Auction/Private Sale): $50–$100 CAD

Factors influencing value include:

• Authenticity: Handmade village pieces are valued higher than mass-produced factory replicas.
• Artistic Quality: The unique design, expressive face, and craftsmanship elevate the figure's worth.
• Provenance: While the figure’s precise island origin is uncertain, its known purchase in Bali during the 2000s from a store that carried village art contributes positively to its authenticity.

Recommendations:

• If you wish to confirm its authenticity as a Timor or other Indonesian tribal carving, a professional appraiser specializing in Southeast Asian tribal art would be ideal.
• Listing the item on global art platforms like Etsy, eBay, or dedicated tribal art websites may attract collectors of ethnographic art.
• Highlighting the piece’s background, its purchase during Bali's peak period of authentic handicrafts, and its unique facial style can increase interest.