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Southeast Asia, Thailand, Rattanakosin Kingdom, ca. 19th century CE. meticulously carved wooden sculpture of a deity, likely a thepphanom or temple guardian, standing in a tranquil pose with liberal remains of lustrous gilding as well as black and red pigments. Showcasing a slender physique, the figure stands atop straight legs and wears a floor-length robe elaborately decorated with relief lotus flowers and abstract motifs. Layered necklaces lie across the broad shoulders, which taper to an elegantly long neck. Gazing downward, the figure presents a tranquil visage with dramatically arched brows, a flattened nose, and slender lips held in a warm smile. Curved ears with flared adornments flank the ovoid head, which is surmounted by a conical tiara comprised of tightly-packed nodules, while a long cape covers the verso. Size: 9.8" W x 38.5" H (24.9 cm x 97.8 cm); 46.5" H (118.1 cm) on included custom stand.

The Thepphanom came to earth when Buddha reached enlightenment, to serve as his protectors and later as guardians to temple and sacred texts, and their forms are based on Apsaras and Gandharvas - the devas who inhabit higher realms.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, 1995 to 2010; ex-M. Kobiashi collection, Hawaii, USA, acquired from 1960 to 2000

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#172803

Losses to feet, top of headdress, and forearms, as well as along stable fissures. Chips, nicks, and abrasions throughout, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, nicely preserved detail and liberal remains of gilding and pigments.