This is a rare antique Cambodian bronze statue/ashtray depicting a Kinnaree, or Kinnari.
T
hese ashtrays were made by local artisans for the French from 1850 until the early 1920’s when they controlled the Indochina peninsula.  The motifs were taken  from the old Cambodian culture, the Khmer period, which was from 800 to 1350 AD.  The craftsmanship was excellent and changed from time to time with makers signing their work with symbols on the back of the base.   This piece measures
19.7 cm (7 3/4 in) tall from back base bottom to top point.  The statue only is 16.5 cm (6.5 in) tall x 8.0 cm (3 1/8 in) wide at the wings x 6.5 cm (2.6 in) deep at the tail to front hand, with a horseshoe-shaped base of 3.8 cm (1.5 in) tall x 8.8 cm (3.5 in) wide at the bottom and top width of 8.0 cm (3 1/8 in).  It weighs 700 grams (24.2 oz.).
A great place to keep trinkets, keys, coins, jewelry, offerings, or other small things.
A
kinnara
is a celestial musician, part human and part bird
in Hindu
and Buddhist culture
. In these traditions, the
kinnaras
(male) and
kinnaris
(female counterpart) are two of the most beloved characters.  They are believed to come from the Himalayas and often watch over the well-being of humans in times of trouble or danger.
I have partnered with an American friend living in Thailand to make this and other collectible antique pieces available.  He has spent most of his adult life living and working in Nepal and Thailand, while also traveling frequently to Burma, India, and Cambodia, and has amassed an incredible collection of these and other hand made antique wares over the last 40 years.  None of his relatives have any interest in the items, so he has asked me to help find them new homes with those who will appreciate their beauty and artistic value.
PLEASE NOTE:  This item will be safely and securely shipped free of charge from Thailand by the owner via EMS (an average of 5-7 business days in transit).  Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.  Thanks for shopping 🙂