Burmese Nat, Min Gyi Nat

Burmese Nat, Min Gyi Nat

This is a seated figure of a Burmese Nat known as Min Gyi Nat. See Myanmar Buddha, the image and its history for reference, p445.

He is a Nat, from pre-Buddhist animist beliefs of Burmese people. These are a group of supernatural beings, or nature spirits, of which there is special group of 37 ‘royal’ Nats.

Nat worship sill occurs in Burmese society alongside Buddhism which is the prevalent religion. It is much more common in rural areas.

Paint on wood, with inscription on dark red base, possibly lacquer.. The carving and decoration is well executed and detailed. Some gilded decoration. The 6.5cm dagger is removable.

Dimensions:
19cm high x 9cm wide x 6cm deep

Date:
20th Century.