THAILAND, LAN NA PERIOD, 16TH CENTURY

The facial features and silver-inlay in the present example are characteristic of early Lan na images that bear stylistic connection to the bronzes of the earlier Sukhothai kingdom (spanning from the mid-13th to mid-15th centuries). The present example displays an oval face, a slanted flare of the eyes, and lips with upturned corners, all of which were stylistic developments during this period. Certain incised lines, such as where the socket meets the lid, recessed mouth rims, and four neck incisions are features shared with other Sukhothai bronzes from this period, whereas the hairline and flatter nose bridge resemble other Lan na images. The beautifully rendered silver inlay in the eyes suggests an important commission.