Tusau Padan (Indigenous Malaysian, 1930-1996) Tree of Life or "Kayu Aru". Tusau Padan was a native Kenyah artist born in Kalimantan Minor. He resided in Kuching, Sarawak on Borneo Island, Malaysia for most of his life. He painted traditional designs especially the "Kayu Aru" or Tree of Life. The design features animals such as a dragon dog "Kalong Asu" and birds such as the Hornbill which is considered sacred. The animals are arranged asymmetrically within swirls and branches. They ascend in rank and level throughout the tree. Traditionally such paintings decorated the interior of Longhouses. Padan was also considered a master of the Sarawakian Sape,a traditional lute used in ritualistic dance to induce a trance state. More information on Tusau Padan is available on: http://www1.sarawak.com.my/org/atelier/thistory.htm The only recording of his Sape playing: https://youtu.be/Cw63nA7k3o0 - Tempera on raw fabric. Signed in the bottom center. 52 1/2" H x 33 1/2" W.