Burmese Medicinal Arhat Made Of Teak – 18th Century, 151.5 Cm

A monumental Burmese medicinal arhat carved from solid teak, depicting a monk who serves as an altar guardian holding the attribute associated with medicine. Burma (Myanmar), Ava and Mandalay traditions, 18th century. The sculpture measures 151.5 cm high, 36.5 cm wide, and weighs 42 kg.

The figure is depicted standing, in a frontal and contemplative pose. The face, robe, and hands are carved from wood; remnants of lacquer and gilding still accentuate the forms. The attribute held by the monk is described as the medicinal fruit haritaki, associated with medicine in Burmese Buddhist iconography.

The solid teak, the craftsmanship, and the construction of a large object intended for an altar or a monastic space are evident in the details, the joints, and the surface. The photographs show the sculpture from the front, in profile, and from the back, as well as the preserved areas of lacquer and gilding.

Original condition: wear on the lacquer and gilding, natural shrinkage cracks, localized losses, and signs of use consistent with its age. The surface retains its patina and original layers; no modern restoration is noted in the description.

Height: 151.5 cm. Width: 36.5 cm. Weight: 42 kg. Reference: 689.