A rare and captivating carved ebony centre table, the base formed as a tortoise supporting four Foo Dogs from the mouth of each comes a stylised foliate branch rising to hold the circular Verde Marinace granite top.
Height: 27¼ inch (69.5 cm)
Diameter: 30½ inch (77.5 cm)
Given the combination of these traditional and narrative elements, present in the mythology of both Ceylon and Burma since the 4th century and more particularly to the West in the later days of the Empire of The Great Moghal (1526 – 1857), we date this table to the early part of the 19th century prior to the Empire’s demise and give it Myanmar-Sri Lankan provenance.
Foo Dogs are a symbol of protection and are believed to have the power to protect against evil spirits and bring good luck and wealth.
Around the world the tortoise and turtle can be seen as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge, and is able to defend itself on its own. It can be regarded as personifying water, the moon, the Earth, time, immortality, and fertility.
In Hindu mythology, the earth is supported by four elephants standing on the back of a turtle. The Hindu deity Vishnu was reincarnated as the turtle Kachhapa that carried the weight of the world on its back.
Excellent.
The custom fitted top of Verde Marinace Granite, a unique and visually striking natural stone quarried in Brazil.
Known for its distinct appearance of a predominantly dark green background with embedded pebbles and rocks in various colors, shapes, and sizes giving an appearance reminiscent of a pebble beach or riverbed.
By appointment only.
