Buddhist monk couple. Burma, 17th-18th century. Carved wood. With traces of polychromy and inlaid glass. Measurements: 50 x 110 x 50 cm. Pair of sculptures made entirely in carved wood, with remains of polychromy and inlaid with mirrored crystals, representing two monks in a praying attitude. Originally, both pieces were placed in front of the figure of a Siddhartha Gautama (or Buddha), which is no longer preserved. Both figures have similar physical characteristics, with shaven hair and finely delineated eyebrows. Their sketched smiles, a symbol of balance and serenity, reflect their complacent attitude in the service of the Buddha, while the elongated earlobes allude to wisdom. Although the ensemble has lost much of its polychromy, we can appreciate the careful treatment of their robes, common among Buddhist monks, which still retain the inlaid crystals that adorned them, an aspect typical of Burmese sculpture. Both pieces continue the Eastern Burmese aesthetic, which has always been strongly influenced by Buddhism and Hindu myths. The wood carving, with its attention to detail, is particularly noteworthy. Very common in Burmese society, as monastic society represents a large part of the Buddhist following in the nation, statues of monks used to be displayed on the walls of many monasteries and nunneries in Burma. The statues of these monks used to be carved to offer prayers and respect to the Buddha.