Timorese Temple BasketsArticle | Updated 1 month ago Timorese Temple Basket F3004 WA Museum Intricately designed and patterned, these baskets are most commonly found in East Timor. Mostly used for carrying food, the Timorese Temple Baskets are circular/ hexagonal/ or octagonal in form with small foot stands and a distinctive lid that is reminiscent of traditional temple architecture in the region. Annie inspecting one of the Coluquhon collection Timorese Temple Baskets. Image copyright WA Museum One example of a ceremony in which these baskets are used in is that of Loron Matebian, otherwise known as All-Souls Day. This yearly practice differs between Timorese ethnic groups, but generally involves honoring ones ancestors and remember those of the family that have passed away. Practitioners of Loron Matebian prepare traditional dishes of food in which to offer their ancestors though prayer and ritual. The Timorese temple baskets, or woven aubaku, are filled with food such as Betel Nuts so that one’s ancestors may come, eat with them, and impart their blessings. Further Reading Museum Victoria. (2010). Honoring Our Ancestors: Remembering Timore Leste. Community Exhibition Program. The Immigration Museum. Melbourne, Australia.