Lot 11a, Auction 3/19/2026: Two Sumatra Stone Figural Plaques – Nude Male & Female

$1,950.00

In stock

Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Sumatra, ca. 20th century CE. A striking pair of carved stone figural relief panels depicting stylized nude human figures in frontal view, one male and one female, each wearing a rounded hat. The figures are carved in low relief from rectangular stone slabs, their bodies rendered with simplified, almost geometric clarity that emphasizes strong outlines and expressive presence. The male figure stands upright with arms extended outward and legs slightly apart, the torso marked by a recessed navel and clearly delineated genitalia. The female counterpart is similarly posed, her form distinguished by delineated breasts and carefully defined genitalia. Both figures feature circular eyes, prominent ears, and elongated triangular noses, lending the faces a mask-like character typical of regional folk carving traditions. Each figure is set against a flat stone field, allowing the relief carving to project prominently from the surface and create subtle interplay between light and shadow. Size of larger (male): 16″ W x 39.2″ H (40.6 cm x 99.6 cm)

Together, the pair presents a balanced representation of male and female forms rendered with direct, unembellished vitality. Their stylized anatomy, distinctive hats, and bold frontal stance suggest a decorative or symbolic role, possibly as architectural or commemorative elements within a local Sumatran context.

Condition: Chipping, nicks, and abrasions as shown. Areas of loss to front of male plaque and to sides of both. Liberal remaining detail.

Provenance: ex-private collection, Fairhaven, Massachusetts, USA, collected from 2010 to 2015

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