A Stunning Pair of Intricately Carved Wooden Indian Architectural Supports

Origin: Indian
Period: Late Nineteenth / Early Twentieth Century
Provenance: Unknown
Date: c.1880 - 1910
Height: 27 inches
Width: 13.5 inches (at maximum)
Depth: 3 inches (at maximum)

The figural softwood pierced and carved supports modelled as armed riders on horses, with maidens and attendants beneath, decorated with a range of patterns, the figures standing on plinth bases with scroll ends.

Condition would be described as fair to good with very small amounts of loss,and a section of old repair to the male attendant figure where there has obviously been a break at some stage. There are several holes present to the backs for wall attachment. The overall colour is pleasing and there is no signs of any worm or infestation.

Part of the fascinating mesh of colonial era India these supports were perhaps once part of a Mandapa, a pillared outdoor hall or pavilion for public rituals, or maybe as part of the external walls of a temple which was segmented by pilasters and carried niches housing sculpture. Studying the shape of these pieces further it is also very plausible they were the main supports under a small overhead balcony, the tops supporting the balcony floor and the bottom sides attaching to the side wall of the building.

Fabulous pieces of art in their own right, but also proving an intrinsic use, these supports would make a breathtaking addition to a porch or balcony, or simply used as candle supports in a living area.