Batak Pustaha from Sumatra

Batak Pustaha from Sumatra.

SOLD

Rare Pustaha from northern Sumatra in Indonesia.

This unique hand produced book is in manuscript form on tree bark and is housed in hand carved wooden covers. Bound in concertina style and consisting of 24 text pages in Batak script and drawings and diagrams in red and black ink.

This book deals with divination and magic ritual and was intended for use by spiritual leaders (datu) and their disciples. These books are also often related to medicine. The datu can also be viewed as a "medicine man" type figure.

In good condition overall. A rare opportunity to purchase a unique object.

Dimensions; approximately 9cm high 11cm wide x 3cm deep.

Extremely difficult to date - my best estimate is circa 1930.