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The art of Siam. 14th-19th centuries |
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Kneeling donor 16th century Bronze Height: 12.5 cm Depictions of earthly, secular personages are rare in Siamese
art. But even those that do exist are presented in the stylized image
of a deity. On the upper, naked part of the trunk there are numerous pieces
of jewellery: their types, as well as the shape of the crown, are characteristic
of Northern Thai art. Judging by the royal vestments, some senior member
of Lanna's ruling dynasty may be presented here in the guise of a deity.
The donor is holding a hollow conical object (the lower part of which
has, sadly, been broken off). This may have been a cult vessel made from
a seashell and used to make libations of water on the ground as testimony
of a gift being made to the temple.
Copyright © 2011 State Hermitage Museum |
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