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Balinese Hand Carved Wood Sculptures c. 1900-1940s

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:125.00 USD Estimated At:500.00 - 700.00 USD
Balinese Hand Carved Wood Sculptures c. 1900-1940s
Featured in this lot are two (2) Midcentury Hand Carved Wood Balinese Bust Sculptures of Balinese dancers, one female and one male, circa early to mid 1900s. Wood carving has been an ancient and popular craft in Bali for hundreds of years, and has its roots in Hindu-Buddhist culture. Prior to the 1900s, the purpose of the fine art of wood carving was purely religious. Wood panels and statuettes were not meant to decorate people’s home, as they are today. Wood carving for commercial purpose was initiated around 1930 when it was introduced to Netherlands and Europe by the Dutch traders, who quickly figured there was a big demand for these products. Balinese wood carvings are made for different purposes: spiritual use, home decoration or commercial use. Typically Balinese wood carvings are made from hard woods with a coarse grain such as teak, sandlewood, and chempaka wood. Using simple tools such as chisel and machete, each piece is unique. The intricate carving on both sides takes time to accomplish. These pieces have nice soft facial expressions, amazing intricate detailing especially apparent in the headpieces, necklaces, and arm bands. Both carvings are in wonderful conditions. Female carving measures 6"W x 9.75"H x 4"D, weight 2lb, 4oz; male carving is 6"W x 9.75"H x 4"D, weight 3lb.