Wooden Nat Beikthano Spirit Protector, Vishnu

€3400,00

Temple (or palanquin?) finial, entirely carved in the mass and representing a Nat, Burmese protective spirit. He sits on a throne supported by Hamsa, the sacred Goose or Swan. The disc in his hand is probably the Sudarshana Chakra, a circular weapon symbolizing divine justice, protection against evil and restoration of cosmic order (Dharma).
A possible representation of Vishnu, although he is usually shown with four arms. In traditional Burmese representation, Vishnu(Beikthano) is depicted as a man riding his man/bird mount, the Garuda. These images are sometimes called “Beikthano Nat” and are frequently found in traditional Burmese art. See“The Thirty-Seven Nats” by Sir Richard Carnac Temple (1906).
Another superior Nat using the Hamsa (Hintha) as a mount is Thurathadi (Saraswati), but she is a goddess and this option has been ruled out.
Burma (Myanmar), 19th century.
Very good condition.
Vestige of yellow pigments, sometimes slight earth deposits in the interstices.
Provenance: Estate of Claude de Marteau
Sold with certificate of origin.
H 78 cm x W 31 cm x D 27 cm