15th Century Majapahit Terracotta Handmaiden Figure (Fertile Woman With Child)
Bagnolo Mella, Italy
£6,736 per item
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Item details
Height
64.0 cm
Width
28.0 cm
Depth
28.0 cm
Diameter
28.0 cm
Wear conditions
Good
Wear conditions
Excellent
Shows little to no signs of wear and tear.
Good
May show slight traces of use in keeping with age. Most vintage and antique items fit into this condition.
Average
Likely to show signs of some light scratching and ageing but still remains in a fair condition.
Apparent Wear and Tear
Visible signs of previous use including scratches, chips or stains.
Please refer to condition report, images or make a seller enquiry for additional information.
Description
Immerse yourself in the captivating legacy of the Majapahit Empire with this rare and beautifully preserved 15th-century terracotta handmaiden figure. Depicting a fertile woman tenderly holding her child, this evocative sculpture symbolizes the deep-rooted cultural values of fertility, family, and domestic protection that were integral to Majapahit society. These figures were often kept in households as guardians of the hearth, believed to bring prosperity and ensure the well-being of the family.
This statue radiates a sense of ancient spirituality and reverence. Its connection to both the sacred and the everyday life of Majapahit culture makes it a fascinating piece for collectors and historians alike.
Hailing from the esteemed Trowulan region in East Java, this rare piece has journeyed through centuries before finding its place in the private collection of Anacleto Spazzapan. Documented in the Majapahit catalog on page 144 as figure number 11, it has been meticulously studied and authenticated by Professor Agus Aris Munandar, a prominent authority in Indonesian archaeology.
Professor Munandar, born in 1959, is currently the professor of Indonesian Archaeology at the University of Indonesia in Jakarta. His extensive research focuses on Hindu-Buddhist archaeology, iconography, and the ancient history of Indonesia and Southeast Asia. He served as a member of the Indonesian team of experts at National Cultural Heritage from 2015 to 2018 and previously held the role of Head of Institute and Research at the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Indonesia. Now the head of the Department of Archaeology at the University of Indonesia, Professor Munandar has authored numerous articles and 19 books, many of which delve into Majapahit culture and artifacts, solidifying his reputation as a leading scholar in the field.
Professor Munandar's endorsement, complemented by a preface from Professor Massimo Vidale of the University of Padua, offers invaluable insights into the religious and decorative significance of Majapahit terracotta artifacts. Professor Vidale, an esteemed teacher of archaeological research methodology and oriental archaeology at the Department of Cultural Heritage of the University of Padua, boasts extensive experience in archaeological expeditions across the Near East, Central Asia, and North Africa. He participated in an archaeological mission to Java and is the author of numerous specialized books and articles based on his research findings.
Despite its age, this terracotta handmaiden figure remains remarkably well-preserved, thanks to a meticulous conservation restoration. It comes with a certificate of authenticity, guaranteeing its provenance and historical significance.
With its dimensions of 64 cm in height and 28 cm in diameter, this majestic sculpture commands attention, whether showcased as a striking centerpiece in a modern or eclectic setting or elevated on a pedestal as a museum-worthy masterpiece. This timeless artifact not only enriches the aesthetic of any space but also serves as a lasting symbol of protection, fertility, and prosperity.
Condition report:
Good. Repaired. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Despite its age, this terracotta handmaiden figure remains remarkably well-preserved, thanks to a meticulous conservation restoration.
Cancellations
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Returns
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Free collection available
Yes
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- Ships from Bagnolo Mella, Italy
Cancellations and Returns
Last updated: 24th March 2025
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