Old Wooden Dewi Temple Figure with Original Gilding

Characterful hand-carved wooden statue of a seated Dewi figure, placed in a high niche-shaped backplate. What immediately stands out is the subtle forward-leaning posture of the figure, giving the statue a natural and almost lifelike appearance. The hands rest demurely on the lap, while the body is worked softly and fluidly from the wood. It is precisely this subtle asymmetry and serene posture that give the piece much more character than a standard decorative sculpture.

The backplate is also particularly well-crafted. A slightly serrated, hand-carved edge runs around the perimeter, breaking the silhouette and giving the object more depth. This framing not only reinforces the form of the figure but also makes the sculpture visually stronger on the wall or in a niche. The back shows solid old wood with clear drying cracks, signs of use, and natural aging, befitting a traditionally crafted object with genuine age.

Remnants of old gilding are still visible in several places. Under magnification, this layer reveals a grainy, broken structure characteristic of old traditional gilding, rather than modern paint or recent finishes. Together with the dark patina, the craftsmanship in the face, ornamental motifs, and robe, and the old handwritten label on the back, this creates an object with convincing authenticity and a strong story of its own.

According to the old label, the statue was once referred to as “Dewi,” meaning a goddess. Although such an old note need not be read literally as a firm identification, that designation fits well with the quiet, devotional appearance of the piece. The combination of niche shape, gilding, old wood, and hand-carved details makes this an atmospheric object with clear temple or ritual influence.

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