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Indonesian Painted Buffalo, Cow Bell Decorative Folk Art Sculpture, wall art
$391.65
£286
€335.25
CA$539.33
A$587.05
CHF 311.05
MX$7,060.11
NOK 3,954.98
SEK 3,624.30
DKK 2,504.28
About the Item
Antique Indonesian Buffalo Racing Cowbell Painted Wood with Rope Handle
Discover this antique Indonesian buffalo racing cowbell, traditionally strapped around the necks of water buffalo during ceremonial races and steering events. Originating from rural Indonesia, these hand-carved wooden bells were an essential part of agricultural festivities and cultural rituals.
Buffalo racing, known as Barapan Kebo in Sumbawa, is a traditional sport in Lombok and West Nusa Tenggara, involving pairs of buffaloes racing across a muddy rice field. These races are cultural events that strengthen community bonds and are believed to boost soil fertility.
Key aspects of buffalo racing (Barapan Kebo):
• Traditional Sport: Buffaloes are paired, yoked together with a wooden yoke called a Noga, and a jockey rides on a wooden plank (Kareng) attached to the yoke.
• Muddy Racecourse: The races take place in flooded rice fields, with buffaloes racing through deep mud.
• Community Event: These races are social gatherings where farmers and communities come together, celebrating agricultural life.
• Boosting Soil Fertility: The tradition is believed to improve soil fertility and increase buffalo populations.
• Prestige: Winning a Barapan Kebo race is a source of pride for the community and can increase the value of the winning buffalo.
How it works:
• Buffaloes are paired and yoked with a Noga.
• A wooden plank (Kareng) is attached for the jockey to stand on.
• Jockeys encourage the buffaloes to run faster.
• The buffalo that reaches the finish line first is declared the winner.
Each bell is crafted from solid wood, shaped into a bold geometric form and painted with vivid layers of red, yellow, black, and natural wood patina. The paint has worn beautifully over time, revealing an abstract, almost contemporary surface that carries both its utilitarian past and an artistic presence today.
Why you’ll love this piece
• Cultural heritage: Used in buffalo racing, these bells embody the energy, sound, and vibrancy of Indonesian village life, now repurposed as sculptural decorative objects for contemporary interiors.
• Decorative versatility: Whether displayed on a shelf, table, or mounted on a plinth, these sculptural objects bring colour, authenticity, and conversation-starting presence to any space.
• Materiality and patina: Retains its original rope or twisted metal handle, with age-worn paint revealing layers of colour and use, creating an abstract painterly effect reminiscent of wabi-sabi
Origin:
Indonesia
Period:
Early to mid 20th century
Condition:
Good antique condition with age-related wear, patina, and minor losses consistent with use. Original handle intact.
We recommend contacting us for precise shipping quotes, as 1stdibs estimates are indicative only. We always endeavour to find the most cost-effective and secure solution for your location.
Follow our page for curated cultural objects and historic design pieces, each selected for their craftsmanship, provenance, and ability to bring depth to contemporary living.
- Dimensions:Height: 11.03 in (28 cm)Width: 18.9 in (48 cm)Depth: 6.7 in (17 cm)
- Style:Folk Art (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:1910-1919
- Date of Manufacture:1910
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor structural damages. Minor fading.
- Seller Location:London, GB
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU2868345794742
About the Seller
5.0
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Premium sellers maintaining a 4.3+ rating and 24-hour response times
Established in 2015
1stDibs seller since 2017
201 sales on 1stDibs
Typical response time: 1 hour
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Maldon, United Kingdom
- Return Policy
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