Exceptional life-size wooden Horse head

South India or Sri Lanka

19th century (after 1850)

Wood with colorful pigments

L 90 cm x W 33 x D 26 cm

Provenance: Private French collection

Mounted on a custom-designed base in metal and plexiglass

In Tamil Nadu, South India, and Sri Lanka, this type of life-size horse head was traditionally mounted on the front of ceremonial carts (ratha) dedicated to Aiyanar, a local guardian god. Or the head was sculped as part of a larger statue of a horse that carried Aiyanar. The horse represented the gods’ mounts and symbolised strength, speed and protection.

The vibrant paintwork in red, yellow and green was meant to make the figures stand out during processions. The thick, rope-like lines were intended to imitate ornaments such as bridles or other temple decorations. The teeth and tongue are visible in the open mouth. 

The carving style marked by strong, rhythmic lines, large expressive eyes, and the use of polychrome is characteristic of Tamil Nadu art, especially within the Aiyanar cult. This superb sculptural piece has a tremendous presence.

Aiyanar is a guardian deity of Tamil Nadu, sometimes standing alone as village protector, but also often depicted on or with large wooden or terracotta horses. The large numbers of terracotta models of horses, frequently placed near an Aiyanar shrine within the village, indicates a link with the local potter community. These life-size models were used by Aiyanar at night when he left the temple.