Inventory no.: 3951

Deer Antler Carved with Scenes from the Ramayana, Bali, circa 1920

SOLD

Deer Antler Finely Carved with Scenes from the Ramayana

Bali

circa 1920

length: 26.5cm, weight: 162g

This deer antler segment has been finely carved in high relief all over with scenes of the Balinese version of the Ramayana. The top of the antler is carved with a large image of the demon-witch figure Rangda. Sinta and Rama are shown as are other figure amongst thick and copious tropical growth.

The Ramayana was composed in ancient India and seems to have been introduced to what is now Indonesia around the eighth or ninth century where it took on regional characteristics and additions. The story tells of Rama, an avatar of Wisnu, and his wife Sinta, who is abducted by Rawana the evil king of Lanka. Much of the tale centres on Rama’s and his brother Laksamana’s efforts at rescuing Sinta with the help of the monkey general Hanuman and the monkey king Sugriwa.

The carving is in perfect condition without losses and repairs. The horn has a honeyed-yellow patina and obvious age.

References

Maxwell, R. et al, Bali: Island of the Gods, National Gallery of Australia, 2014.

Reichle, N. (ed.),

Bali: Art, Ritual & Performance, Asian Art Museum, 2010.

Provenance

UK art market

Inventory no.: 3951

SOLD