16th C. Sri Lankan Wood Scripture Stands (Framed Pair)

South Asia, Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka, ca. late 16th to first half of 17th century CE. A fine set of two hand-carved wooden support legs for holding sacred scriptures pertaining to Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Each leg stand features a horizontal cross bar with a pair of ornaments flanking a square, foliate-adorned rod housing, and the legs are rendered to resemble stylized lions in reared poses. A rod or book-holding device was inserted into each housing so that the book could either lean against the center pole or be lifted off the ground. Each leg is finely preserved and covered in nice patina. Mounted on a modern display frame. Size of each (both are relatively similar): 11.5" W x 8.3" H (29.2 cm x 21.1 cm); (display frame): 32.2" W x 21.2" H (81.8 cm x 53.8 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection

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#148328
Condition Report: Legs are attached to display frame. Both legs have repairs to horizontal top bars, with minor nicks and abrasions to lions, crossbars, and lateral ornaments, and softening to some finer details. Light earthen deposits and nice patina throughout.