Vintage Panel of a Court Dancer, Burma/Myanmar (T052A-BLE) $335

Description

Traditional Burmese dance has its roots in folk religion and is a combination of ancient animism, nat worship and a later syncretic blend with Buddhism. Ethnic minorities often perform dances that include warriors , Zawgyi (shaman) and nats wielding swords or holding drums while dressed in full-body costumes. Burmese performances were regulated with limitations on clothing, the use of silk, brocades, jewels, gold and silver, precious stones and other decoration such as sashes, headgear and footwear. Today, Buddhism and Burmese folk religion are closely interwoven and it is common to see a Buddhist offering next to a nat shrine (sat-sin). The enthusiasm the Burmese have for honoring their past arts is seen in vintage Burmese-carvings they have produced in the last 5-6 decades. Gifted, observant woodcarvers can create antique-looking patinas and paint effects making unaware buyers believe pieces they are genuine antiques. Made using old wood with insect-bored holes, some damage and nail holes as if it were antique, well-conceived “modern antiques” like this one proves the brilliance and imagination of Burmese folk artists producing pieces worthy of good reasonable prices. But it is a calamity if sold as a genuine antique with an overstated date and an inflated price, which is not the case here. This very fine art piece is part of the VA Burmese-Art Collection.

Sources

Britannica, “Burmese Religion, Nats”

Facts and Details, “Nats (spirits) and Animism in Myanmar.”

Myanmar Tours Blog, “The Art of Traditional Dance in Myanmar” posted 31/01/2015,

Ma Thanegi and Barry Broman, Nats: Spirits of Fortune and Fear, Bangkok, iGroup Press Co., 2011.