Description
About this antique item
This exceptionally rare carved wood was produced during the old Myanmar period in Burma. As we can see the unique hairdresser of Myanmar style mix with an Greek and Egyptian influence of ‘Sphinx’ into this beautiful rare and distinctive antique item of ‘Burmese Sphinx’
Sphinx : From Egypt and Greek to Asia
The earliest known representations of the sphinx, a mythological creature with the body of a lion and the head of a man, come from Egypt during the Old Kingdom period. The idea also occurs in ancient Greece where wings were often added to the lion’s body. The motif was equally popular in South-East Asia, although scholars have debated whether it arose here independently or was transmitted via the Hellenistic kingdoms of Central Asia. A variety of names are used to describe this beast but the most popular one is the Indian term, ‘purushamriga.’ It was believed to have apotropaic powers and was placed in temples and palaces to ward off evil spirits. Unlike other areas of the world where sphinxes were produced, Southern Asian sphinxes are still used in the modern day.
The sphinx is modelled in an alert, tense pose, with head raised and back legs bunched as if in preparation. The body is highly muscular and powerful, decorated with flanges of ceramic – themselves decorated with floral patterns – that delineate the limbs and haunches. The tail is plain with an ornate tip, and curls backwards along its spine, forming an ‘S’ shape when viewed in profile. The detailing is extremely well done, from the superficial decoration to the forming of the grinning face to the toes with their individual claws. The face displays a slightly supercilious expression, with high, arched eyebrows, piercing eyes and a smile that slightly bunches the cheeks.
The headwear is exceptionally elaborate, with a raised rim, circular motifs around the perimeter and a three-tier “tower” in the centre; it also wears leaf-shaped earrings that protrude from under the headwear. The circular motifs are also impressed into the necklace, along with larger scrollwork patterns and foliate designs. The broad forehead and the shape of the diadem recall the style of Myanmar statues that are more widely known.
Yaowarat Antique : The Antique shop
“Yaowarat Antique” located in Yaowarat Street known as the old town of Bangkok has been open for over 30 years. Started by the family of “Danvirunhavanich”. By converting little antique artifacts such as old stamps and antique toys into Benjarong or Porcelain plates. Then Mr.Danvirunhavanich began to open his own antique shop which was at first named “Chiva sart” meaning “The lesson of life”. After the retirement of Mr.Danvirunhavanich, “Tee” known as “Tee Yaowarat” : son of Mr.Danvirunhavanich took over to take care of this antique shop. Yaowarat Antique Shop is a popular-oriented antique store among Bangkokian people. Many of their antiques have a unique southeast Asian and Thai style. For those who love Asian antiques, once you come to Bangkok, it’s a must to visit this place!
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