Lot 96c, Auction 4/12/2026: 19th C. Indian Himachal Wood Noodle Maker – Ram Form

$715.00

In stock

South Asia, north India, Himachal Pradesh, ca. late 19th to 20th century CE. A rare and whimsical hand-carved wooden noodle maker in the form of a standing ram. The figure rests sturdily on four legs, its head carved to serve as a handle for grip, while the forelegs and hindlegs form the base supports. The ram’s body is decorated with incised geometric designs, and its curling horn-like features give the piece a lively and sculptural presence. At the center of the body is a hollow chamber fitted with a round metal plate perforated with small holes. Rising from the back is a removable triangular wooden press with a hole for convenient grip. Dough made of flour or rice would be placed inside, and the press manually turned, forcing the glutinous material through the pierced plate. A utensil positioned between the legs would catch the freshly formed noodles. Such ingenious kitchen implements were fairly common in Himachal households and would be kept in the cooking areas of village homes. Size: 24″ L x 5″ W x 22″ H (61 cm x 12.7 cm x 55.9 cm)

This practical utensil, however, is transformed into a work of folk art through both form and decoration. The ram, standing proudly, embodies vitality while serving as a functional tool.

Himachal Pradesh is one of the few areas in India where wood is abundant, with forests of walnut, coarse chestnut, and wild black mulberry supplying ample material. This abundance fostered a deep woodworking tradition, most famously visible in architecture where doors, windows, balconies, panels, and interiors are richly carved. The same love of wood and high carving skill are found in even the humblest of objects and toys. This antique noodle maker is an excellent example of that tradition: an everyday kitchen press elevated into a decorative and sculptural object. It reflects the ingenuity and artistry of Himachali carvers who imbued functional household tools with character and charm.

Condition: Back leg is loose and can be removed; press is also removable. Chips, nicks, abrasions and stable fissures to wood, as well as some areas of possible old insect damage. Rich patina throughout.

Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection, acquired from 1990 – 2005

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.