11Story

07 May 2009

Weapons and associated objects

The Batak

Contents - The history and western discovery of the Batak - Social and political life - Religion and rituals             * The beliefs             * Tondi and begu - The objects of the priest: the datu items - The Death - Synopsis of the exhibition             * The Workd of the Dead             * Singa             * Musical instruments             * The Toba House             * Enclosing the world             * Weapons and associated objects             * The datu items             * The protection - Bibliography

Weapons and associated objects

 

Batak acquired firearms from Aceh, a muslim state in the North and from foreign traders, searching for camphor and rubber. Raja’s and datu weapons are carefully crafted and related objects (e.g. gunpowder flasks) are beautifully carved. The repertoire of motifs is similar to the one found in architecture, such as double spirals, vegetal hooks, and heart-shaped figures. Piso knives belong to valuables exchanged during marriages, given by the groom side to the bride side. Such objects are considered as male items, also worn as a male ornaments, opposed to female gifts, such as ulos textiles.

 

 

Toba sabre, piso surik sinalenggam. © musée du quai Branly, photo Patrick Gries, Bruno Descoings, 70.2001.27.328.

 

 

Karo bullet-holder, paranak bodilan. © musée du quai Branly, photo Patrick Gries, Bruno Descoings, 70.2001.27.354

 

 

Powder horn, parpanggalahan. © musée du quai Branly, photo Patrick Gries, Bruno Descoings, 70.2001.27.166.

 

 

Toba sabre handle, piso podang. © musée du quai Branly, photo Patrick Gries, Bruno Descoings, 70.2001.27.333.

 

 

 

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