Devotional Base, Small Burmese Altar

This Burmese carved wooden altar dates from the late Konbaung period (19th century) and reflects a striking stylistic fusion of traditional Burmese art and British colonial influences. The claw-and-ball feet, a motif derived from the British Chippendale style, reflect this Western influence while retaining a deeply Burmese structure and ornamentation. The richly carved sides are adorned with frangipani flowers, makaras (protective mythological creatures), and hamsas (sacred birds) symbolizing purity and spiritual transcendence. The back of the altar, finished in the most sober way, attests to its ritual use: to be placed against a wall thus concentrating all the decorative richness on the visible parts of the altar. This piece of furniture is a fascinating example of the evolution of Burmese art under colonial influence, while retaining a strong cultural and spiritual identity. Some areas still have some traces of red pigments (monks' robes, courage, devotion, transformation) and yellow (Purity, light, illumination, awakening) Very good general condition with signs of normal wear due to age and use. Provenance: Claude de Marteau Collection Sold with certificate of provenance. L 100 CM XP 33 CM XH 29 CM. The red frangipani is a tree known for its beautiful flowers and their fragrance as well as for its wood used in marquetry. The red frangipani flower is an important symbol among Buddhists, hence its name temple flower. See this Burmese devotional base in full screen mode on Vintage Addict