Antique Palace or Temple Guardian Figure, Thailand (T431)

Description

This wooden figure represents a Thepanom—a celestial guardian or divine attendant in Thai Buddhist tradition who protects sacred spaces and welcome the faithful. They were traditionally placed at entrances of Thai Buddhist temples as guardian figures flanking entrances or royal place complexes for decorative ceremonial purposes. As spiritual protectors they served as intermediaries between the divine and human realms They often appear in symmetrical pairs and may represent divine beings from Hindu-Buddhist traditions, reinterpreted using Thai iconography.

This intricate carving stands with hands in an offering or prayer gesture, typical of guardian or reverential deities symbolizing protection and devotion. He traditional courtly attire of stylized multi-tiered armor-like garments with intricate detailing and a tall, pointed chada (headdress), signifying celestial or royal status. The layered garments, delicate hand posture, and traces of original gilding reflect the Rattanakosin artistic style of the period, blending elegance with sacred symbolism.

It is in excellent condition with remnants of original polychrome paint and gilding. The worn surface and softened paint edges indicate age and traditional craftsmanship, possibly used in a sacred or ceremonial context.