The use of carved wooden ancestor and protective figures was widespread across the islands of Indonesia. Protective figures, now known as 'hampatong', were placed at entrances to their villages and communal longhouses. Each 'hampatong' was carved for a specific purpose and personified a particular spirit or deity. They were made and displayed to celebrate occasions such as a successful headhunting expedition or the funeral of an important person.

This figure of a woman standing on a pedestal is decorated in relief with an 'aso' (a kind of underworld dragon-dog representing the very powerful female spirits), stylised leaves and lotus flowers. In this case, her regalia comprises an elaborate headdress extending down her back and prestige necklace, bracelets and earrings. A small animal clings to the side of the pedestal at her feet and a serpent-like creature is grasped at the waist. The other hand clasps what is possibly a 'kris', or sword. Many 'hampatong' have aggressively exaggerated features such as bulging eyes, gaping mouths and long protruding tongues, but this one is more naturally rendered and exudes a calm and reflective quality.

The Asian Collections, AGNSW, 2003, pg.337.