2 antique 18th -19th Century Indian Carved Wood Panels With Hindu Gods

Two antique Indian Hindu panels, intricately hand-carved from sturdy hardwood, date back to the 18th or 19th century and hail from the Hindu culturally rich region of South India, Kerala. Once part of the vibrant adornments of a ritual temple chariot, these panels beautifully showcase Hindu deities, each elegantly clothed in traditional southern Indian attire.
The craftsmanship reflects the artistic heritage of the time, making these pieces not only decorative but also deeply significant in conveying the spiritual and cultural essence of the rituals they once accompanied.

One of the panels is carved in high relief, depicting three Hindu deities with animal heads, possibly Varaha or Nadi, standing on a base with an incised inscription.

Approximate measurements:
Height: 22 cm (8.66 inches).
Width: 16.5 cm (6.5 inches).
Depth: 6 cm (2.36 inches).

The second panel is carved in high relief, depicting Lord Rama holding his bow and Lord Vishnu as Varaha, both standing on a base with an incised inscription.

Approximate measurements:
Height: 22 cm (8.66 inches).
Width: 15.5 cm (6.1 inches).
Depth: 6.5 cm (2.56 inches).
Weight of two panels: 1.838 kg (4.0521 lb.)

CONDITION: The panels are in their original condition, as found. It shows signs of age and retains remnants of old polychrome. There has been no oiling, waxing, repairs, or restoration. The wood is firm, with no signs of softness or infestation, although there is wear on the exposed areas. Overall, the surface has a rich original patina, characteristic of a wooden sculpture that is over 200 years old.

NOTE: The market is currently flooded with a significant number of replicas and forgeries of Indian antique art objects, including chariot wood panels. These counterfeit items are often crafted from old wood and finished to appear aged, making it difficult for inexperienced collectors to differentiate them from authentic artifacts. However, these reproductions lack any historical or investment value.
We want to assure our clients that the item in question is a 100% authentic antique: an 18th-19th century Indian wood chariot panel, complete with a Certificate of Authenticity.

PROVENANCE: The panel was acquired from an old Canadian collection of oriental art, along with other Indian antiques. Both panels have old paper labels glued to the back, handwritten in ink with collection numbers. During the late 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, many British served as government or army officers in India. After India gained independence in 1947, many of these officers migrated from India to Canada, bringing personal belongings, including antiques, with them.