Untitled

Unknown

15th–16th century · Glazed stoneware (Si Satchanalai kilns) · Asian Art

An impressive sculptural ceramic of a male Buddhist devotee, kneeling and holding his raised hands in veneration (anjali). He is robed in a long tunic-style coat worn over a waistcloth, and he wears slippers and a pointed hat. Decorative details are highlighted in iron-painted black. This is one of the most complete figurines known and one of the most descriptive in terms of the costume of the period. It is very much a sculptural work, conceived fully in the round, fully engaging the viewer's attention. This work was intended to serve as an offering image to be placed before an altar, or Buddha image as a surrogate presence for a notable donor-devotee.

Artist

Unknown

Date

15th–16th century

Medium

Glazed stoneware (Si Satchanalai kilns)

Culture

Thailand

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Purchase, Anonymous Gift and Gift of Mrs. Jacob M. Kaplan, by exchange, 2011