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Burmese Colonial Period Bronze Figure Oil Lamp browse these categories for related items... All Items: Southeast Asian: Sculpture: Bronze: Pre 1940: item #972160 Please refer to our stock #63-88 when inquiring.
$675 |
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| A bronze oil lamp that dates to the latter years of Burma’s British colonial period (1890-1941) is built around the figure of a smiling Burman holding out a small oil receptacle. The piece, nearly two feet in height, has a decidedly art deco look, in spite of the figure’s native dress. According to Sylvia Fraser-Lu in her book, “Burmese Crafts Past and Present,” British colonial administrators had little appreciation for indigenous Burmese art but they acknowledged the superior metalworking abilities of Burmese artisans by commissioning ornamental items with a European flavor. These custom pieces sometimes involved images of “natives” in service such as this tall, slender Burman with his longyi (sarong) and happy-to-serve-you smile. His pose, standing on tiptoes with arms outstretched, is servile. Inlaid eyes and detailing on the sarong and jewelry add realism without detracting from the sleek form. The oil container, cast separately, is removable, so the figure could be displayed holding a small bowl of flowers as well as with a wick or a candle in the oil receptacle. This vintage piece is in excellent condition with some expected discoloration on the surface of the bronze. Dimensions: height 23” (59 cm), width 5 ˝’ (14 cm), depth 9” (23 cm). | |||||||||||||||
