Central Asia, Nepal, ca. 17th century CE. A stunning wooden sculpture, skillfully carved to portray the bust of Gautama Buddha - a representation of Buddha before he found enlightenment - below a 7-headed serpent known as the king of the nagas, Mucalinda, all in high relief. Highly adorned, the tranquil prince gazes outwards from sizeable, almond-shaped eyes beneath a sweeping, arched brow, an ovoid urna, a coiled coiffure, and an elaborate diadem. His serene visage is additionally comprised of a prominent, curved nose, a gentle smile with lips slightly parted, and a pair of ears with lengthy lobes each weighed down by ornate ear adornments. A tunic with a vegetal motif embellishes Gautama's chest. The snake's body braids itself into a high arch that frames Buddha's head, as its 7 heads project outwards from above. The interwoven body of Mucalinda is a traditional motif throughout Nepalese art. Size: 7.8" W x 11.5" H (19.8 cm x 29.2 cm)
This relief depicts the moment that Buddha was meditating in a forest when the great storm arises. Graciously, King Mucalinda provided shelter by covering Buddha with his 7 heads. The king then takes the form of a young Brahmin and pays homage to Buddha.
Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection; ex-private art dealer's collection, New York, USA
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#165578
Condition
Loss of 5 naga heads and 2 snouts, as well as losses to Buddha's chest. A few stable, hairline fissures. Chip to tip of Buddha's nose. Expected surface wear with nicks, chips, and abrasions commensurate with age, as shown. Otherwise, excellent with nice patina and impressive remaining detail.