Central Asia, Tibet, ca. 19th century CE. Made from a human leg bone, this is a wonderfully carved relief figure of the dancing Hindu god Vishnu. The lower section is triangular, covered in swirling motifs; a tier-like border separates the lower portion from the dancing figure, who is carved in a dynamic pose with his legs bent, his hands clasped together around a dorje. The god wears a tall headdress and large earrings. Vishnu is a blue-skinned, four-armed, deity central to Hinduism, who is often depicted wearing a headdress of tall, elongated conical or miter-like form. Tibetan artwork often incorporates human remains in order to emphasize a theme of mortality. Size: 1.55" W x 4" H (3.9 cm x 10.2 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection

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#134373

Losses to the upper sides of the piece as shown in the photographs. Excellent patina from age and handling, with very clear motifs.