"Iconic" showcases extraordinary craftsmanship in this intricately carved wooden sculpture depicting a celestial dancer in classical Indian tradition. The dark-toned wood has been transformed into a dynamic figure of a female deity or apsara in tribhanga pose-her body creating three graceful bends as she stands upon a lotus pedestal. Elaborate jewelry adorns her form, with meticulous detailing in her ornate headdress, necklaces, and waistband. The figure is framed within an arched surround filled with swirling floral motifs and small bird figures, creating a sacred space that enhances her divine presence.

About Artwork: Iconic

This 1989 wood carving, standing approximately 28 inches tall, represents the exceptional heritage of Indian sculptural traditions that have flourished for millennia. Acquired from India in the 1990s, the piece exemplifies the cultural significance of dance within Hindu artistic expression, where celestial dancers embodied both spiritual devotion and earthly beauty. The sculptor has employed traditional techniques to create remarkable depth and dimensionality, with openwork carving that allows light to pass through certain areas, enhancing the sense of movement and ethereal grace. The dark patina suggests years of ritual use or display, adding to its authentic character. When positioned in contemporary spaces, this substantial carving brings profound cultural resonance and artistic excellence, its detailed craftsmanship inviting close examination while its graceful silhouette creates dramatic visual impact from across a room.