Kayanic Dayak complex. East Kalimantan, Borneo Island, Indonesia.
Hardwood. H: 32” (81.3 cm), W: 21.5” (54.6 cm), D: 8” (20.3 cm).

The sculpture represents a powerful protective spirit, likely the Thunder God, known as Aki Belarik Ubong Do’.
As the supreme protector, the Thunder God controls the weather, brings life-giving rain, and wields thunder as
a weapon against malevolent forces.

The figure’s bent, muscular legs and powerful arms convey dynamic tension and a readiness to spring into action,
qualities befitting a guardian spirit. Its oversized, “scooped” face, large disc-shaped eyes, diamond-shaped mouth,
and elongated earlobes reflect the classic archaic Kayanic style. Rather than depicting an ordinary human, the
sculpture presents a supernatural, mask-like visage intended to inspire awe.

Ex: Jack Sadovnic collection. Caracas, New York, Bali, Brussels, Miami, Los Angeles.