Pair of Sri Lankan or South Indian Yali Door Plates

Each of this very unusual pair of plates in brass or bronze has been with the form of a mythical, multiple-headed creature known as a yali with the mouth yawning wide open. The yalis are cast in high relief.

Each plate has several drilled holes to allow it to be fixed most probably to a wooden door.

It is likely that the plates come from South India or Sri Lanka, where they probably were intended for a Buddhist temple or monastery (vihara).

The plates might have surrounded a lock or a door latch.

It is the first time that we have encountered plates such as these.

They are in fine condition, and have very clear age, with a lovely golden patina. They are accompanied by a pair of attractive, custom-made stands so that they can be attractively displayed.