Large Terracotta Head of Luohan on Wood Stand from Vietnam

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A large and heavy fired clay (terracotta) head of an Arhat (also known as Luohan in Chinese). The followers of … Read more A large and heavy fired clay (terracotta) head of an Arhat (also known as Luohan in Chinese). The followers of Buddha who achieved the enlightenment, statues of Arhats are always found in the Buddhist temple, often surrounding the Buddha. The terracotta head is molded with facial features of large, rounded eyes, widely open laughing mouth showing exposing the teeth and long earlobes. The details were painted on using black, red and green pigments. Overall, it displays a humorous and exaggerated expression and exudes a strong folky appeal.
We believe that the piece was mostly likely from Northern Vietnam based on the styling. Similar terracotta statues are found in village temples such as the famous Nom Pagoda in Dai Dong commune outside of Hanoi. See less