Within a traditional house belonging to a Batak raja or local ruler, a hombung is the largest moveable prestige item. These carved constructions had multiple functions: as storage chests for valuables and ritual items, beds, and dreaming founts for the house's leader. Hombungs served as seats of connection between the community and the ancestors.

The front of the chest depicts a pair of imposing anthropomorphized heads leaning upon their own crouched torsos or bodies. Known as singa, a mythical, protective beast ubiquitous in Toba Batak art, the long side panels are an extension of the singa’s body. The rear protrusion represents the singa’s rear legs and raised haunches. The top of the chest features various grooved panels and well-fitted removable boards. As a majestic statement piece, this multi-purpose item is exquisitely constructed.

Hombung were relatively common, but the vast majority of them did not transcend either into the realm of fine art, nor did they create a massive visual impact, as this piece admirably does. This particular hombung is staggering in its size and beauty.

For comparative purposes, the most readily accessible examples of this genre can be found in Yale University's Indo-Pacific collection (ILE2014.8.76, ILE2012.30.174). These are very fine hombung, if not perhaps, in the same class as this offering.