20 - STANDING BRONZE BIRD INDIA ORISSA 18TH CENTURY

STANDING BRONZE BIRD INDIA ORISSA 18TH CENTURY Dimensions: Height 6,7 cm Wide 3,5 cm Depth 9,5 cm Weight: 99 grams A small cast-bronze bird standing on short legs, with a compact body, pronounced beak and large circular eyes. The plumage is suggested through incised linear and lattice patterns across the wings and tail, giving the stylised form a surprisingly animated surface. Green and reddish-brown patination has developed unevenly across the bronze. Animal and bird forms occur widely in Indian metalwork as independent votive objects, finials, ornaments and components of larger ritual ensembles, often combining close observation with deliberate stylisation. This example is particularly appealing for its direct, almost graphic treatment. The oversized eye, simplified body and patterned feathers create a strong silhouette at very small scale, while the aged patina gives the surface considerable depth.