Description:

Southeast Asia, Indonesia, ca. late 18th to early 19th century CE. A hand-carved wooden plaque depicting intricate relief details including the face of a Barong, a lion-like creature who is king of the spirits and leader of the hosts of the good in Indonesian mythology. The plaque features openwork spiraling tendrils along the exterior, petaloid leaves around the base and chin of the Barong, and wispy feathers around the ears. The Barong face features bared fangs, hemispherical eyes, and fiery brows, and a crown of skulls tops the face. Believed to be the 'king of the spirits,' Barong Ket (also known as Basnapati Rajah) is the keeper of white magic that conflicts with the dark magic of his eternal nemesis Rangda. Traces of red and white pigment show how this plaque was once painted with vibrant colors. Size: 13.1" W x 5.25" H (33.3 cm x 13.3 cm)

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection; ex-Michael Dunn collection, Wiscasset, Maine, USA

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#149034

  • Condition: Minor abrasions and nicks to Barong face, front, peripheries, and verso, with fading to original pigment, inactive insect damage, softening to some finer details, and several stable hairline fissures, otherwise intact and very good. Light earthen deposits, nice patina, and great remains of original pigment throughout. Modern steel mounting screw on verso for display purposes.

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March 19, 2020 10:30 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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