Balinese hulu

[A. G. Maisey]

Anthony, I have never worked with ivory, so I really cannot comment of matters that have to do with working this material.

However, I do have a moderate collection of carvings in various types of ivory, and what I can say is that where a master craftsman is involved in the carving, I consider that no material comes close to ivory in its ability to translate the craftsman's ideas & efforts into a supreme expression of human endeavour.

[Anthony G.]

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

Anthony, I have never worked with ivory, so I really cannot comment of matters that have to do with working this material.

However, I do have a moderate collection of carvings in various types of ivory, and what I can say is that where a master craftsman is involved in the carving, I consider that no material comes close to ivory in its ability to translate the craftsman's ideas & efforts into a supreme expression of human endeavour.

Hi Alan, understood. Thanks

[Anthony G.]

This is another Balinese hulu in moose antler. I am disappointed someone else got it.

Anyway, I like to ask as many people around told me different things. And I am still unsure what this figure is about. Can anyone advise?


1: Priest?

2: Old learner (teacher)?

[Jean]

A very fine & detailed modern carving (a bit overdone) with a very expressive face and plenty of Hindu symbols (Bhoma, naga, etc).
It may depict Guru Agastya, a Hindu ascet, or simply a balinese priest (pendita), this style of figure is quite common.

[Anthony G.]

Originally Posted by Jean

A very fine & detailed modern carving (a bit overdone) with a very expressive face and plenty of Hindu symbols (Bhoma, naga, etc).
It may depict Guru Agastya, a Hindu ascet, or simply a balinese priest (pendita), this style of figure is quite common.

Guru Agastya?

I did not know this person until you mentioned it and do some read up on the internet. I tend to think it might be Guru Agastya based on the sculpture and those photo i saw on the net.

Many thanks Jean for sharing.

[Jean]

I attach the pics of 4 hilts in similar style (bearded priest or sage). The attribution to Guru Agastya was taken from Martin Kerner. The third specimen is supposed to depict "Empu Barada" according to a Javanese keris specialist.
Regards

[Anthony G.]

Originally Posted by Jean

I attach the pics of 4 hilts in similar style (bearded priest or sage). The attribution to Guru Agastya was taken from Martin Kerner. The third specimen is supposed to depict "Empu Barada" according to a Javanese keris specialist.
Regards

interesting. Thanks for sharing