Antique Palace or Temple Guardian Figure, Thailand (T431)

Description

This finely carved wooden figure is a celestial guardian or divine attendant in the Thai Buddhist tradition who protects sacred spaces and welcomes the faithful. In Thai belief, these spiritual figures appeared on earth when the Buddha reached enlightenment. These figures were traditionally placed at entrances of Thai Buddhist temples or flanked entrances of royal palace complexes for decorative and ceremonial purposes, to secure sacred thresholds and to honor and guard the spaces within. As Buddhist spiritual protectors, they were intermediaries between the divine and human realms. They have long been used in Thai iconography. Their opulent regal attire and serene expressions symbolize the splendid, peaceful and spiritual realms of the divine. Dressing celestial figures in royal attire honors both the spiritual world and the kings, who were often considered divine or semi-divine rulers.

This sensitive was carved by a talented regional artisan made to be placed on a home or small temple altar. His stylized layered garment with intricate detailing and tall, pointed chada (headdress) signifying his celestial and royal status. The layered garments, delicate hands and gold colored trim reflect the Rattanakosin (1782-1932) artistic style which blended elegance with sacred symbolism by decorating celestial figures with inlays and gold leaf to augment their radiant and divine appearance. This statue modestly replicates this opulence with intricate painted designs and gold colored headdress and borders. The item he was holding is missing but was probably a short sword representing power, or a lotus, the Buddhist symbol of enlightenment, purity and awakening.

It is in very good condition with most remnants of the original  polychrome paint and gilding remaining. The surface wear and loses to bottom skirt indicating its age and use.

This fine statue is an excellent example of traditional Thai craftsmanship and was and was mounted on a modern black stand for display purposes.