Ritual object

ᨕᨒᨚᨔᨘ Alosu

Note: The following text is taken from a 19th-century collection catalog and, in its language and perspective, partially reflects colonial thought patterns. We present the text in its original version to make the collection's history transparent and promote a critical examination of the colonial legacy. Certain terms and formulations may be perceived as problematic today. A 2009 research project concluded that most descriptions are factually correct and still usable; only a few details were found to be inaccurate or incorrect. The results of this project were published in the following collection catalog: https://khm-wmw-tm-library.on.worldcat.org/oclc/1457155265

"475. Devil expeller - "Alosu"
A bamboo box about half a meter long, filled with all kinds of sweets, encased in a delicately woven case of lontar leaves, which form many buttons, of superior workmanship. The basketry is dyed red and yellow. On the end of this box there is an appendage in the shape of a bird's head which is covered with red cotton. On the other end there is a tassel made from cords woven of lontar leaves. When the Bissus is dancing, this instrument is shaken over his head, bringing forth a rather loud noise."

Translation of: Czurda, F. A. J. (1883). Catalog mit Erklärungen der Etnografischen Privatsammlung des Dr. F. A. J. Czurda in Postelberg (Böhmen). (p. 119). Wien, Wilhelm Braumüller