Antique Temple Chariot Carving with Lord Rama, South India, 18th–19th Century
€595Bid from €535.50
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Damme, GermanyOn Whoppah since February 2025 • 3 sales
Product description
Physical Dimensions & Status
Height: 38 cm | Width: 15.5 cm | Weight: 1.8 kg (Solid Hardwood)
Unique temple fragment — definitively not re-stockable after sale. This authentic South Indian Ratha panel originates from a monumental wooden temple chariot used during religious processions. According to original documentation, the relief depicts Lord Rama, the legendary hero from the Ramayana and one of the most important manifestations of Vishnu within Hinduism. With its powerful relief, rich ornamentation, and ancient temple patina, this historic panel forms an impressive art object where religious symbolism, architecture, and traditional wood carving converge. An exceptional collector's item for lovers of Indian temple art and characterful interiors.
✓ Authentic antique: Original fragment of a South Indian temple chariot from the 18th–19th century.
✓ Religious iconography: Depiction of Lord Rama, one of the most revered incarnations of Vishnu.
✓ Traditional craftsmanship: Entirely hand-carved from solid South Indian hardwood.
✓ Historical temple patina: Dark, natural aging developed through prolonged religious use.
✓ Architectural authenticity: Original break lines indicate that the panel was part of a monumental Ratha.
✓ Includes: Official certificate of authenticity from 1stbuddha.
Lord Rama & the South Indian Temple Tradition
Ratha processional chariots are among the most impressive religious art forms of South India. During major temple festivals, images of deities were paraded through the streets on richly decorated wooden chariots, accompanied by music, prayers, and offerings. The decorative panels formed an essential part of this sacred architecture.
Lord Rama: Within Hinduism, Rama symbolizes righteousness, courage, loyalty, and spiritual discipline. His depiction served as a source of protection and inspiration during religious processions.
Temple Chariot (Ratha): The monumental processional chariots were entirely handcrafted and richly adorned with religious depictions from the Ramayana and other sacred scriptures.
Bird Motif: The bird above the figure enhances the composition and refers to the rich symbolic imagery characteristic of South Indian temple art.
Architectural Heritage: This panel was not designed as a standalone work of art, but as part of a much larger religious construction, which further enhances its historical significance.
Authenticity & Conservation
The panel possesses an authentic historical appearance directly stemming from its original religious function.
Solid Hardwood: Entirely carved from a single piece of South Indian hardwood with deeply worked relief.
Natural Temple Patina: The surface has developed a deep dark brown patina due to prolonged exposure to temple use, incense, and climatic influences.
Historical Construction Traces: The visible break lines at the top and bottom confirm its original placement within a larger Ratha construction.
Hand Carving: The fine ornamentation, jewelry, and clothing details demonstrate the high level of traditional South Indian wood carving.
Honest Collector's Condition: Authentic traces of use and age that contribute to the historical value and character of the object.
Specifications
Object: Ratha Panel / Temple Chariot Carving
Depiction: Lord Rama
Origin: South India (Tamil Nadu or Karnataka)
Dating: 18th–19th century
Material: Solid hardwood
Height: 38 cm
Width: 15.5 cm
Weight: 1.8 kg
Condition: Good authentic collector's condition with natural temple patina, historical traces of use, and original construction traces appropriate for an antique temple fragment.
Additional details:
- Brand: 1stbuddha
- Style: Zuid-Indiaas
- Style: Indiase tempelkunst
- Material: Hardhout
- Colour: donkerbruin
- Period: 18e–19e Eeuw
- availability: in_stock
- product_type: Beeld / sculptuur
Specifications
CategorySculptureConditionGoodSeller locationDamme, GermanyDelivery optionsDelivery or pickup