"Old Chofa Garuda"
Antique carved wooden Chofa or (chof ah) depicting the mythical bird Garuda, vehicle of the god Vishnu. In Thai Buddhism, Garuda is a royal and spiritual symbol representing power, justice and protection. Thus, these ridge ornaments help to ward off evil spirits and attract blessings to buildings and their occupants, while embodying the aesthetics and spirituality of Buddhist temples. Thai copy (Siam) to be dated around the beginning of the 19th century. Sold with its steel base, equipped with 4 adjustable feet and a tilt adjustment screw. Provenance: Estate of the collector and Asian art dealer Claude de Marteau. This piece is sold with a certificate of provenance. Max. height (with base) 183 CM X 23 CM X 20 CM. Foot L 34 CM X 28.5 CM. See this Chofa Garuda in full screen mode!