Large Vintage Balinese Polychrome Carved Wood Rama and Sita Sculpture, 32"

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Description

A commanding vintage Balinese figural sculpture, intricately hand-carved from wood and finished in time-softened polychrome and gilt decoration. The composition … Read more A commanding vintage Balinese figural sculpture, intricately hand-carved from wood and finished in time-softened polychrome and gilt decoration. The composition is traditionally interpreted as Rama and Sita, the celebrated divine couple of the Hindu epic Ramayana, presented here in an unusually expressive and dramatically intertwined pose.

The graceful forward figure, representing Sita, inclines her head while holding one hand in an elegant gesture beside her face and the other at her waist. Immediately behind her stands the taller crowned figure of Rama, carrying a long bow-like attribute. Their closely arranged poses create a sculptural composition that appears animated from every angle.

The carving is particularly notable for its remarkable density of detail. Elaborately pierced crowns, layered necklaces, ceremonial jewelry, patterned bodices, flowing scarves and deeply carved folds cover nearly the entire surface. Sweeping turquoise elements rise behind the figures, giving the sculpture a striking vertical silhouette and an almost architectural presence.

Its original-looking, beautifully aged palette combines muted rose pink, turquoise green, warm cream, deep brown and black, enriched throughout with traces of gold. Natural wear and fading have mellowed the colors and highlighted the carving’s depth, lending the sculpture the atmospheric character associated with older Balinese decorative and devotional art.

The figures rise from an integral carved base ornamented with curling cloud or wave forms. At approximately 32 inches tall, this is a substantial statement sculpture ideally suited to an entryway, library, collected interior or prominent console display. It is equally compelling viewed as traditional Southeast Asian craftsmanship, sacred-inspired art or an expressive example of Balinese figurative carving.

Dimensions:
Approximately 32 in. Height × 9 in. Width x 6 in. Depth
Weight 8 lbs. See less