Alor, East Nusa Tenggara, early 20th century
This miniature spirit boat originates from Alor, East Nusa Tenggara, and was used as equipment in death ceremonies. Made of carved wood with dog-shaped ornaments, this boat served as a guardian of spirits, accompanying the soul on its journey to the afterlife. This miniature boat has distinctive features on the hull, bow and stern, decorated with triangular or zigzag motifs consisting of the colors white, red and black. The coloring is thought to have used a direct painting technique on the surface of the boat's hull.
The spirit boat tradition developed in Alor before the introduction of influence of monotheistic religions, reflecting the Alor community’s beliefs in animism and dynamism. This boat became an important symbol in the religious life of the local community in the past. After the arrival of Christianity in the area, this ritual slowly disappeared.
This boat was donated by A.A. Van Dalen, an assistant priest in the Alor Islands, and recorded as part of the Bataviaasch Genootschap collection in 1924 with inventory number 18690. The geometric ornaments in white, red, and black on the hull of the boat add artistic value and represent the cultural history and beliefs of the Alor people.
Inventory Number: KBG 18690
Materials: Wood, paint
Dimensions: Length 64 cm, Width 12 cm, Height 50 cm
Yustina Dwi Stefanie, Kurator Koleksi Museum, discusses the significance of the Spirit Boat of Alor
Curators
Margo Prasetya
Yustina Dwi Stefanie | National Museum of Indonesia
Montiari Rashid
Tiomsi Sitorus | National Museum of Indonesia
Alam Wisesha Prima Putra