Antique Gilded Buddhist Naga Temple Wood Carving Panel EUO145

Well over a century old, this antique Buddhist temple wood carving was sculpted from teak wood, gilded in genuine 24 carat gold leaf with colored glass inlays. It was part of a larger structure located inside the bot (most sacred part of the wat or temple) and has a mirror image on the other side. It depicts two Naga, a mythical serpent who protected the Buddha and the Dharma. The symbolism of the Naga in Southeast Asia is widespread and deeply embedded into the art and culture of the region. Unlike many architectural pieces of this nature, this wood carving has mirror images front and back. The sculpture is structurally intact and without repairs. It has been mounted on a stand for display. Shipping by registered airmail with online tracking is included in the price.