ATONI LILIT TOMI STATUE

This unique stone sculpture is decorated with motifs resembling roosters, geckos and scorpios. All three are symbols of the afterlife and believed to possess the power to ward off evil forces. The rooster is associated with the sun, relating strength, courage and fertility, while the gecko and scorpio are attributed to water and the netherworld. Looking at the head of this piece it's hairstyle is typical for the people of Timor. Such a statue would either have been placed on top of stones encircling a sacred tree, or inside a house, for Divine protection during headhunting activities.