Important Notice

Wood
20th century
Bihar

Height: 9 in (22.5 cm)
Width: 33.5 in (83.8 cm)
Depth: 1 in (2.5 cm)


On one side of this elaborate carved wooden panel, likely to be the headpiece of a palanquin used to carry idols of deities, we see images of village festivities. The tribals are portrayed collecting and drinking 'toddy' or palm wine, swinging on an improvised merry-go-round, and cheering on a bull fight. On the other side of the panel, we see the story of a long journey, first in a bus, then as part of a procession in which a palanquin is also carried, and finally in a train. Perhaps the account of a marriage celebration and the departure of the bride from the village, this carved panel could be from a palanquin that was included as part of a village bride's dowry.


Wood
20th century
Bihar

Height: 9 in (22.5 cm)
Width: 33.5 in (83.8 cm)
Depth: 1 in (2.5 cm)


On one side of this elaborate carved wooden panel, likely to be the headpiece of a palanquin used to carry idols of deities, we see images of village festivities. The tribals are portrayed collecting and drinking 'toddy' or palm wine, swinging on an improvised merry-go-round, and cheering on a bull fight. On the other side of the panel, we see the story of a long journey, first in a bus, then as part of a procession in which a palanquin is also carried, and finally in a train. Perhaps the account of a marriage celebration and the departure of the bride from the village, this carved panel could be from a palanquin that was included as part of a village bride's dowry.