Wooden Putali water guard from Nepal

Description

Beautiful wooden Putali water guard from Nepal with powerful, understated look.

This authentic Putali figure from Nepal symbolises protection and spiritual vigilance at water sources and village settings. The compact, frontal posture with the hands brought together in front of the chest radiates calm, concentration and inner strength - exactly the qualities associated with this type of protective figure.

The sculpture is roughly and expressively carved from one solid piece of wood. The square head with deep eyeholes, firm nose and subtly opened mouth give the sculpture a penetrating, almost timeless presence. An old, dry patina is visible all over the surface, with clear traces of use, weathering and age. Vertical drought cracks and minor losses reinforce the archaic character and confirm its authenticity.

Origin & meaning
Putali statues are traditionally placed at water points, springs or village edges in Nepal and act as protectors against calamity and disease. They form a tangible link between humans, nature and the spiritual world. This specimen was personally brought back from Nepal by a relative of a Nepalese woman and later acquired from the collection of a Dutch collector couple from Heerewaarden.

Dimensions & Condition
Height: 46 cm
Width: 18 cm
Depth: 11 cm
(dimensions without tripod)