Lot 29B
19th C. Burmese Nat Figure - Striking Nacre Shell Eyes
19th C. Burmese Nat Figure - Striking Nacre Shell Eyes
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Southeast Asia, Burma (Myanmar), ca. 19th century CE. Southeast Asia, Burma, ca. 19th century. Southeast Asia, Burma, ca. 19th century. A splendid teakwood carving of a dynamic male figure with inlaid shell eyes, likely representing a Nat spirit - one of the 37 supernatural beings in Burmese cosmology revered as guardians and intermediaries between the human and spirit worlds. Carved with animated detail, the figure lunges forward with bent knees, one of which rests atop a projecting, shield-like element that may symbolize defense or strength. He wears a traditional pointed headdress and a draped lower garment richly embellished with carefully incised patterns of scrolling, undulating, and dashed designs. His expressive face is deeply modeled, with incised features and striking eyes inlaid with shimmering nacre shell, lending a lifelike and watchful presence. Size: 4.4" L x 9.7" W x 19" H (11.2 cm x 24.6 cm x 48.3 cm); 23.4" H (59.4 cm) on included custom stand.
The figure's left hand is clenched at his chest, possibly once holding an object - such as a ritual sack used to carry offerings or symbolic foods associated with Nat worship. His right hand is now lost, though the overall composition retains its sense of vigor and alertness. This figure may have originally served as an architectural element, perhaps a bracket or decorative support beam in a temple or shrine, where protective or sacred imagery helped repel malevolent forces. Alternatively, its form and mounting suggest it could have adorned a traditional Burmese ox cart - particularly one used for ceremonial or high-status purposes - where such spirited carvings were affixed to the frame to invoke divine protection during travel.
Whether sacred ornament or symbolic guardian in motion, this evocative sculpture reflects the rich syncretism of Burmese Buddhist and animist traditions, where Nat spirits remained vital to everyday religious life and visual culture. Weathered with age and use, yet beautifully preserved, it is a powerful testament to 19th-century Burmese craftsmanship and spiritual belief.
Nats are an integral part of Burmese culture, and for centuries, artisans have carved wooden representations of these supernatural beings for placement in a wide range of settings - from Buddhist temples, pagodas, and home shrines to everyday and even non-religious contexts. Believed to take many forms, Nats may be nature spirits associated with trees, rocks, and rivers, mythological figures, or humans who suffered violent or untimely deaths. This diverse pantheon includes not only deities but also mischievous and morally ambiguous characters - including rascals and heavy drinkers - reflecting a broad spectrum of human and supernatural behavior.
Central to Nat worship is the belief that these spirits can bring both fortune and mischief. They are seen as powerful beings who must be placated with offerings and rituals in order to gain their favor or prevent their wrath. This dynamic relationship is not one of reverence alone, but of negotiation, with favors granted only as long as the spirits are properly appeased.
The veneration of Nats predates Buddhism in Burma, likely originating in prehistoric agricultural traditions centered around land, sky, and water spirits. Although the arrival and spread of Theravada Buddhism in the 12th century reduced the dominance of Nat worship, it never erased it. Instead, the two belief systems coexisted and often intertwined, with Nat traditions continuing to hold deep cultural and spiritual significance across Burmese society.
Parts from certain animal species including nacre shell may require an additional license upon import into another country due to legislation relating to endangered species and environmental conservation. If you are not sure whether CITES rules apply to your item, please see the CITES Appendices.
Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection, acquired from 1990 - 2005
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#193603
- Condition: Missing right arm, part of left ear, hat finial, and object that was held by left hand. Heavy weathering with nicks, chips, and abrasions as shown, as well as some stable hairline fissures and some glue for reinforcement in areas. Nice preservation of shell eyes and liberal remaining detail. Light patina throughout.
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