Figure - Principe Phra Aphai Mani - Bronze





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Bronze sculpture of Phra Aphai Mani, the legendary Thai prince, seated on a stylised rock and holding the magical flute, with a green patina and traces of gilding; origin Thailand, estimated 1950–1960, dimensions 15 × 10 × 6 cm, in good used condition with minor signs of age.
Description from the seller
Thai bronze sculpture representing **Phra Aphai Mani**, the legendary prince protagonist of one of the most celebrated works of classic Thai literature. The figure appears in a serene and contemplative posture, holding the characteristic magical flute that is one of the most recognizable attributes of the character, an instrument endowed with supernatural powers according to the narrative tradition.
The composition shows the prince seated on a stylized rock formation, with a relaxed posture that conveys balance and nobility. He wears the ornate regalia of traditional Thai royalty, highlighting the elaborately conical headdress, bracelets, and the rich ceremonial necklace that frame the figure. The facial features, with a serene and stylized expression, follow the aesthetic canon of Thai art, where the harmony of forms prevails over strict naturalism.
The bronze surface presents an attractive greenish patina that contrasts with the traces of gilding visible in the ornamental areas, creating a rich chromatic play that enhances the depth of the reliefs and gives the piece an appearance of antiquity and character. The incised details of the ornaments, attire, and decorative elements show careful casting and finishing work.
Beyond its decorative value, this sculpture constitutes an evocation of one of Thailand's great cultural heroes, a symbol of wisdom, adventure, and spiritual power. Its combination of literary symbolism, artistic refinement, and noble compositional balance makes it especially attractive for collectors of Asian art, as well as for interiors where Southeast Asian artistic and cultural expressions are appreciated.
Insured shipping and careful packaging.
Seller's Story
Thai bronze sculpture representing **Phra Aphai Mani**, the legendary prince protagonist of one of the most celebrated works of classic Thai literature. The figure appears in a serene and contemplative posture, holding the characteristic magical flute that is one of the most recognizable attributes of the character, an instrument endowed with supernatural powers according to the narrative tradition.
The composition shows the prince seated on a stylized rock formation, with a relaxed posture that conveys balance and nobility. He wears the ornate regalia of traditional Thai royalty, highlighting the elaborately conical headdress, bracelets, and the rich ceremonial necklace that frame the figure. The facial features, with a serene and stylized expression, follow the aesthetic canon of Thai art, where the harmony of forms prevails over strict naturalism.
The bronze surface presents an attractive greenish patina that contrasts with the traces of gilding visible in the ornamental areas, creating a rich chromatic play that enhances the depth of the reliefs and gives the piece an appearance of antiquity and character. The incised details of the ornaments, attire, and decorative elements show careful casting and finishing work.
Beyond its decorative value, this sculpture constitutes an evocation of one of Thailand's great cultural heroes, a symbol of wisdom, adventure, and spiritual power. Its combination of literary symbolism, artistic refinement, and noble compositional balance makes it especially attractive for collectors of Asian art, as well as for interiors where Southeast Asian artistic and cultural expressions are appreciated.
Insured shipping and careful packaging.

