Catalog: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Indian Subcontinent (4)

An unusual model of Phurba in lost wax cast bronze and gilded with mercury. Iron blade. The handle is made up of a whole bust of the deity and not just a head as we can usually find it. Known models with busts are extremely rare, there are 2 or 3 in the museums of Delhi. Examination shows us that it is not a montage from a cut statuette but that the bust was cast especially for this Phurba. The lower part of the skull necklace was broken and lost; it was replaced. The iron blade, very oxidized, was peeling off. It has recently been well consolidated by the grafting of a piece of iron and resin. The whole seems to me very old 17th century or before, the patina is beautiful, the wear correct, the state of the steel and the fact that the necklace was replaced are good signs, however a skilful counterfeiter could have them. I have a good feeling, it is not modern, maybe an old copy made in 1900 or really old? I fully understand that it is difficult if not impossible to judge from photos also the Phurba can be visible at the conservatory in Nice for an handling . There is a wax seal on the back which must obstruct a hollow, in which there must be relics or prayers. There are inscriptions on this stamp. Is it a prayer stamp, a customs merchant or export certificate? This stamp may or may not indicate a copy. High; 195mm

Deity head in hammered bronze. The bronze is very thick, the ears are cast separately and welded. The hair is perfectly chiseled with a lot of elegance. The patina is verdigris and recalls that of ancient Roman bronzes. It is highly probable that this head was buried for several centuries. We were unable to locate it geographically. India, Himalayas, Afghanistan, Swat valley....? The appearance of the metal and its patina would indicate a high period of several centuries. A millennium would not be impossible. High 132mm. Had to be twisted is straightened . About ten years ago an exhibition of art from Afghanistan which took place in Italy, presented a terracotta head with an identically curly hairstyle which was announced as Afghanistan 6th century.

Un panneau de bois sculpté en relief d'une divinité. Travail indien ou Himalayen. Ceratinement trés ancien. Au revers le bois a été fortement vermoulu, toutefois l'ensemble est solide. 205x130mm

Young woman musician in sculpted bone, partially gilded with gold powder probably on lacquer. Details painted in red and black. Beautiful carving and excellent thick gilding. Some normal wear otherwise good condition, no restoration or painting. Height about 15 cm. Probably Indian work from the end of the 19th century, around 1900. The fact that her hair is covered would perhaps announce an Islamic Indian