Vintage Balinese Carved Pratima of the Goddess Saraswati
The Goddess Saraswati – Carved Wood
Size: 20 x 10 x 9 cm (8 x 4 x 3 ½ inches). Weight: 278 grams (10 oz)
A nicely carved Balinese wooden sculpture of the popular Hindu Goddess Saraswati, the Goddess of knowledge, music, flowing water, wealth, art, speech, wisdom and learning.
She wears a classical Balinese sarong, crown and earrings, and is depicted riding her vehicle, a swan, and holding a pot. A receptacle has been carved into the back of her costume in which a sacred item might be placed, such as an amulet, ring, or coin.
I bought this charming carving from an antique shop in Bali in the early 1990s and believe it dates from the 1950s with the gold gilt being applied later. It was placed on my house shrine for many years.
It is in perfect condition, without cracks or blemishes.