Sculpture, Musicien céleste - 17th c. - 39.5 cm - Wood
05
days
12
hours
33
minutes
22
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Sarah Le Helley
Studied Asian art and art market management; researched art in Taipei; worked in auctions.
Estimate € 450 - € 500
No bids placed
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 141736 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Description from the seller
Winged celestial musician playing the drum
17th century
India
Carved wood
H. 39.5 × L. 15 × P. 16 cm
H. 34 cm excluding base
Important architectural element in carved wood representing a celestial musician with wings playing the drum. The figure is depicted in a dynamic posture, body slightly leaning forward, legs strongly bent and brought inward, while it holds a horizontal drum in front of it that it strikes with both hands.
The face, with stylized features, is surmounted by a high hairstyle or elaborate crown. The torso is adorned with ornaments and the lower part of the body is wrapped in a garment with prominently modeled volumes. The drum, carried transversely in front of the abdomen, forms the central attribute of the composition.
In Indian architectural art, figures of celestial musicians and musical performers belong to the decorative and sacred repertoire of temples and sanctuaries. Associated with divine music and ritual celebrations, they can appear in various forms of gandharva, celestial beings, or divine attendants. The presence of wings is particularly noteworthy here and underscores the supernatural nature of the character.
The sculpture was originally part of a wooden architectural element, as indicated by its largely flattened reverse, the mortises and visible assembly traces, and its design intended to be viewed mainly from the front.
Condition: The surface retains a deep and exceptional brown-red patina.
Wearing, erosion, accidents, and gaps corresponding to the piece’s antiquity. Numerous tool marks remain clearly legible and contribute to the sculpture’s vigorous character. A nail at the back is still present on the sculpture.
Presented on a modern metal base.
Provenance: Kanaka The Collection, Portugal
Sent with UPS and insurance
Seller's Story
Kanaka The Collection is a Portugal-based web gallery specialising in Asian art, with a particular focus on the arts of Southeast Asia.
With over 20 years of experience and passion for Asian art, we offer a carefully curated selection of sculptures, ceramics and works of art from across Asia, chosen for their artistic quality, authenticity and historical interest.
Every piece is professionally packed, and we ship worldwide to collectors and institutions.
We remain personally available to collectors before and after each acquisition.
Translated by Google TranslateWinged celestial musician playing the drum
17th century
India
Carved wood
H. 39.5 × L. 15 × P. 16 cm
H. 34 cm excluding base
Important architectural element in carved wood representing a celestial musician with wings playing the drum. The figure is depicted in a dynamic posture, body slightly leaning forward, legs strongly bent and brought inward, while it holds a horizontal drum in front of it that it strikes with both hands.
The face, with stylized features, is surmounted by a high hairstyle or elaborate crown. The torso is adorned with ornaments and the lower part of the body is wrapped in a garment with prominently modeled volumes. The drum, carried transversely in front of the abdomen, forms the central attribute of the composition.
In Indian architectural art, figures of celestial musicians and musical performers belong to the decorative and sacred repertoire of temples and sanctuaries. Associated with divine music and ritual celebrations, they can appear in various forms of gandharva, celestial beings, or divine attendants. The presence of wings is particularly noteworthy here and underscores the supernatural nature of the character.
The sculpture was originally part of a wooden architectural element, as indicated by its largely flattened reverse, the mortises and visible assembly traces, and its design intended to be viewed mainly from the front.
Condition: The surface retains a deep and exceptional brown-red patina.
Wearing, erosion, accidents, and gaps corresponding to the piece’s antiquity. Numerous tool marks remain clearly legible and contribute to the sculpture’s vigorous character. A nail at the back is still present on the sculpture.
Presented on a modern metal base.
Provenance: Kanaka The Collection, Portugal
Sent with UPS and insurance
Seller's Story
Kanaka The Collection is a Portugal-based web gallery specialising in Asian art, with a particular focus on the arts of Southeast Asia.
With over 20 years of experience and passion for Asian art, we offer a carefully curated selection of sculptures, ceramics and works of art from across Asia, chosen for their artistic quality, authenticity and historical interest.
Every piece is professionally packed, and we ship worldwide to collectors and institutions.
We remain personally available to collectors before and after each acquisition.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
1400-1900
Over 200 years old
Yes
Country of origin
India
Material
Wood
Title of artwork
Musicien céleste - 17th c.
Dynastic style/period
17th c.
Signature
Not signed
Provenance
Gallery / Antique dealer
Condition
Good condition
Sold with stand
Yes
Height
39.5 cm
Width
15 cm
Depth
16 cm
Sold by
