Large Dyak Shaman Ironwood Ceremonial Bowl for Medicine Preparation

This is a large Dyak shaman ceremonial bowl carved in heavy black ironwood.  I purchased it from a Balinese antique shop in the 1980s but its origin is the Dyak tribe from West Kalimantan in Borneo.  I understand that it dates from the early 20th century and is used in the preparation of magical herbal potions, and sometimes for food.

It is carved from a single piece of ironwood, with the basin raised on 4 short legs. At one end there is a carved demonic anthropormothic figure with the bowl forming its body.  There is a shell disk at its centre that possibly represents the figure’s navel.

This very collectable Dyak bowl is in excellent condition, free of cracks and blemishes.