Antiquities & Fine Art

Antiquities & Fine Art

Lot 364: A SOUTHERN INDIAN CARVED HARDWOOD RELIEF PLAQUE OF LORD RAMA, LATE 19TH OR EARLY 20TH CENTURY.

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Start price: £70

Estimated price: £100 - £150

Buyer's Premium: 22%

This finely carved hardwood relief plaque originates from South India, likely Tamil Nadu or Karnataka, and depicts Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of the Hindu deity Vishnu. The figure is rendered in a formal, frontal samabhanga posture, standing upon a rectangular base. Rama is identified by his primary attributes, most notably the large Kodanda bow held in his left hand, which features elaborate scrollwork and makara finials. In his right hand, he holds a single arrow pointing downwards, while a quiver filled with feathered arrows is visible over his right shoulder. The deity is adorned in traditional regal attire and jewellery, including a tall, tiered kirita-mukuta crown, multiple beaded necklaces or malas, armbands, and a detailed dhoti secured with a decorative waistband and central sash.

Approximately 19.1 x 9.9cm


Condition report:

The plaque is in excellent overall condition, displaying a rich and well-developed dark brown patina. There is minor surface wear and scattered nicks consistent with age and handling. A small loss is visible to the upper left corner of the rectangular background. The reverse shows minor surface abrasions and a pre-cut mounting hole for hanging.