Southeast Asia, Burma (Myanmar), ca. late 19th century CE. This is a fantastic wooden offering bowl known as a "hsun ok" that is hand carved with three figures supporting a separate lidded coconut vessel. The pedestal base has three arms, decorated with incised linear markings and a central relief carved lotus rosette - the figures stand at the tip of each arm to support the hollow coconut. The coconut bowl is a separate piece with a removable wooden lid that is carved like a pagoda spire. The exterior of the shell is engraved with geometric motifs and sacred animals including an elephant and peacock. This piece would have been used ritualistically to present food or offerings to monks in monasteries or for displaying offerings in a Buddhist temple. While the use of wood and coconut might not be as ornate as some lacquered and bejeweled hsun ok bowls, this is a unique piece with wonderful symbolism throughout. Size: 9.5" W x 10" H (24.1 cm x 25.4 cm)
Provenance: Whisnant Gallery, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA acquired prior to 2000
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#169663
Condition
Pressure fissures across wood base, most are stable, but a radiating fissure across base through edge of central rosette, is potentially a weak point if the piece is moved, but otherwise stable. Chips and losses to rim of lid. Coconut is intact and very good. Beautiful lustrous patina throughout.