Vintage Balinese Wood Carving – Rishi with Kamandalu – Polychrome – 52 cm
€365Bid from €328.50
0 are viewing this item0 favorites
Buy with confidence
Shop & pay safely with Buyer ProtectionDesigner items curated by WhoppahWe only pay the seller once you have safely received the item
Trusted payment methods
Top rated on
About this seller
Private seller
Damme, GermanyOn Whoppah since February 2025 • 3 sales
Product description
Physical Dimensions & Status Height: 52.0 cm | Weight: 2.9 kg (Solid Polychrome Hardwood) Unique object — once sold, definitively no longer available.
This impressive mid-20th century Balinese wood carving depicts a Rishi: a holy sage who, within the Hindu tradition, symbolizes wisdom, meditation, and spiritual insight. The sculpture is entirely hand-carved from solid tropical hardwood and richly painted with traditional polychromy in shades of red, green, and gold. The refined decoration, powerful facial expression, and lotus base make this a unique art object that possesses both spiritual significance and a warm, decorative appeal. A charismatic eye-catcher for collectors of Balinese art and lovers of authentic wood carvings.
✓ Authentic Balinese craftsmanship: Entirely hand-carved from solid tropical hardwood.
✓ Depiction of a Rishi: Holy sage with Kamandalu, symbol of spiritual purity.
✓ Traditional polychromy: Rich painting in red, green, and gold.
✓ Decorative lotus base: Classic symbol of purity and enlightenment.
✓ Historic appearance: Authentic patina and natural aging appropriate for the period.
✓ Includes: Official certificate of authenticity from 1stbuddha.
The Spiritual Significance of the Rishi
Within the Hindu tradition, Rishis are regarded as enlightened seers and spiritual teachers. They are associated with meditation, wisdom, and the transmission of sacred knowledge to future generations.
Kamandalu: The ritual water pot symbolizes purity, asceticism, and spiritual discipline.
Lotus Base: Represents inner purity, growth, and enlightenment.
Balinese Hindu Tradition: Rishi sculptures are seen as bearers of wisdom and protectors of spiritual knowledge.
Expressive Appearance: The powerful facial expression gives the sculpture a lively and contemplative presence.
Authenticity & Material
The sculpture possesses all the characteristics of traditional Balinese wood carving from the mid-20th century.
Solid Hardwood: Carved from a single block of tropical hardwood using traditional techniques.
Hand-painted Polychromy: Original decoration with rich red, green, and gold accents.
Fine Carving: The floral motifs on the reverse side and the intricately detailed clothing demonstrate the craftsmanship of the carver.
Natural Patina: Over the years, the surface has developed a warm, authentic appearance.
Fair Collector's Condition: Minor signs of wear and aging are entirely consistent with a handmade object from this period.
Specifications
Object: Sculpture of a Rishi (holy sage)
Origin: Bali, Indonesia
Period: Approx. 1940–1960
Material: Solid polychrome tropical hardwood
Height: 52.0 cm
Weight: 2.9 kg
Symbolism: Wisdom, meditation, spiritual purity, and inner growth
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with authentic patina, original polychromy, and signs of use consistent with age and traditional use.
Additional details:
- Brand: 1stbuddha
- Style: Balinees
- Material: Tropisch hardhout
- Colour: Goud
- Period:
- availability: in_stock
- product_type: Beeld / sculptuur
Specifications
CategorySculptureConditionVery goodColorsRed, GreenStyleVintageSeller locationDamme, GermanyDelivery optionsDelivery or pickup