Old Batak Bronze Ring
This classic old bronze ring is called a tintin and depicts a rooster. On other islands in Indonesia roosters symbolize male power, though we have not found a definitive explanation for this motif among the Batak of Sumatra.
Both the Karo and Toba Batak are well known for their metal ornaments which are made using the lost wax casting technique. Typically they use brass, although these rings (see JT225a) appear to be bronze. They look quite old and the metal is aged, but we do not know the age or the circumstances for the condition.
Sized rather large, they can be worn on a thumb or index finger, or added to a collection of Batak artifacts. Some similar examples are shown in Batak, Art and Culture; Dr. J.S. Hasibuan; p.228
Size: 1.66″ x 1.15″ x 0.80″ inner diameter / 4.2cm x 2.7cm x 2cm inner diameter
Weight: approximately 14 grams
$55.
