Pair of Folk Wooden Buddhas
Style
Lao folk and devotional Buddhist art, reflecting the late Lan Xang tradition. This charming pair of small Buddhas is characterised by an intimate, direct and expressive treatment typical of vernacular religious sculpture. The slightly simplified anatomy, serene expressions, elongated proportions and long earlobes give the figures a distinctive Lao character. Unlike formal court images, such small wooden Buddhas were often created for personal worship, domestic shrines, temples and monastic settings.
Period
18th–19th Century, Late Lan Xang tradition, Laos. Although the Lan Xang Kingdom fragmented during the 18th century, its artistic and religious traditions continued throughout the succeeding Lao kingdoms. Small wooden devotional images remained an important part of Buddhist practice, particularly in domestic and monastic contexts.
Material
Carved wood.
Size
Height: approximately 13 cm each.
Provenance
French collection.
Condition
no repair