Bali Boned Carved Medicine Holder

Handmade in Indonesia, this cylindrical container combines carved bone with wooden top and bottom caps. The lid features a Leti ancestor figure from Kupang in Timor, carved from black bone, which serves as both ornament and closure. 

In Leti tradition, male ancestors are shown squatting and female ancestors with legs crossed, each form a symbol of lineage and remembrance. The bone body is etched with geometric tribal patterns, creating a rhythmic surface rich in cultural meaning. Pull the top to reveal the hollow interior, once used to hold medicinal herbs. 

Its craftsmanship closely echoes that of our Bali Boned Curved Figure, making the two pieces ideal companions in a thoughtful collection.

Made from ethically sourced bone, each holder is shaped and detailed by hand using traditional tools. The surface features subtle grooves, carved symbols, and a smooth, tactile finish. Slight variations in color and markings reveal its handmade nature, offering authenticity in both material and process.

Crafted by master artisans in Bali, this medicine holder carries the spirit of generations. Each piece is shaped by skilled artisans whose techniques have been passed down through time, rooted in ceremonial traditions that still guide their work today. What was once used to store medicinal herbs now stands as a symbol of heritage and handwork, honoring the past while adding meaning to contemporary spaces.

At JJUIN, we collaborate directly with these artisans to refine their techniques, elevate their designs, and guide material selection that meets the standards of the Western luxury market. Beyond artistry, we mentor them in essential business practices, supporting production timelines, client communication, and long-term growth without compromising heritage.

Each Bali medicine holder is handmade, with natural variations in tone and detail that reflect its individuality. When you bring this into your space, you are not just acquiring an object. You are supporting a tradition that continues to thrive through care, respect, and artistic excellence.

Display this medicine holder on an entry console, bookshelf, or layered within a gallery wall. Its narrow form and carved surface create contrast among ceramics, woods, or textiles. Whether styled vertically or laid flat, it brings depth and story to the spaces it inhabits.

Notes for Design Professionals: Perfect for creating height and textural contrast, this piece works beautifully alongside larger vessels or figures from our Bali Collection. Its slim profile and bone material offer a natural counterpoint to stone, wood, or neutral-toned ceramics, lending quiet sophistication to minimalist or tonal interiors.

Wipe gently with a dry, lint-free cloth. Avoid exposure to moisture or direct sunlight. Do not use chemical cleaners.

Each JJUIN piece is shaped by hand and heart, crafted individually, with subtle differences that make every design completely unique.