Demonic Animal Guardian Figure

wood with traces of red paint and gilt highlights

26.5 cm height

Stone sendi from Pura Kehen, Bangli, with same iconography, in Ramseyer, U.,The Art and Culture of Bali, Oxford University Press, New York, 1977, cat. 152
Possibly an architectural feature or part of a larger piece as a guardian figure.The rampant posture with both front paws raised, bulging eyes and exhibition of the genitals is designed to ward off evil influences.