Lot 195

19th C. Sulu Islands Wood Boat Shaped Funerary Marker

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Lot 195
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19th C. Sulu Islands Wood Boat Shaped Funerary Marker
19th C. Sulu Islands Wood Boat Shaped Funerary Marker
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19th C. Sulu Islands Wood Boat Shaped Funerary Marker

Estimate: $1,800 - $2,700

Starting Bid: $800

(0 Bids)
by Artemis Fine Arts
June 25, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Southeast Asia, Indonesia / Philippines, Maluku Islands / Sulu Islands, Sama-Bajau culture, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A long, wooden, canoe-shaped sculpture that was used a burial marker (sunduk), representing the spiritual journey in the afterlife. The crescent shape tapers to prow ends, the sides etched with a scalloped pattern and inlaid with crushed white shells, and the upper has an openwork ridge with scrolling motifs. This may been the base for a figural carving that would symbolize the gender of the deceased. Size: 48" L x 8" W x 12" H (121.9 cm x 20.3 cm x 30.5 cm)

The Austronesian cultures of the Philippines and Indonesia are known for their maritime skills and are believed to have been some of the most skilled navigators in human history. They undertook extensive sea voyages, leading to the wide dispersal of their languages and cultures throughout the vast expanse of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. While specific practices can vary significantly between groups and islands, the Sama-Bajau usually bury the deceased along the shoreline to be close to the sea that they are in harmony with.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex- P. Kessner collection

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Item # 148503

  • Condition: Old insect activity throughout the interior, with large holes through the top, side, and base. Large hole in base shows the interior is hollow - likely from insect activity. Smaller bore cavities on the base. Old chips and abrasions throughout. Nice patina. Good weathered condition, and despite insect activity, the piece is not overly delicate.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000