Page 99 - Bonhams March 22 2022 Indian and Himalayan Art NYC

343
A SILVER OFFERING BOWL WITH CHARACTERS FROM THE Punnaka’s magical flying steed was a favored subject among Burmese
VIDHURA-PANDITA JATAKA silversmiths, and perhaps nowhere is he portrayed with more gusto
LOWER BURMA (MYANMAR), CIRCA 1915 than on the present offering bowl. The horse’s pleasing, muscular form
An inscription on the underside of the base, translated: “Mr. Paw Sein’s is hammered into high relief. With windswept mane, he leaps over
silver bowl”. swirling waters and mountains below. His hind leg and tail extending
7 1/2 in. (19 cm) high; 10 3/8 in. (26.5 cm) diameter; beyond the scalloped borders, the steed is not bound by his frame.
51 troy oz (1,596 grams) approximate weight
This inspired depiction of Punnaka’s horse is emblematic of the artistic
$10,000 - 15,000 freedom and ingenuity that silversmiths enjoyed in the later part of the
Silver Age. Departing from a traditional narrative mode, the Vidhura-
Pandita Jataka’s cast of characters are presented in theatrical poses
akin to non-literary renditions of the jatakas in painting and dramatic
performances.

Published:
Owens, Burmese Silver Art, pp.83-4, n.S112, fig.3.68.

INDIAN, HIMALAYAN & SOUTHEAST ASIAN ART | 97