Nepalese Wood Standing Figure, Based

Smiling dark figure with hands folded in front, grinning wide as a piano.

This standing figure on a base, carved wood is from Nepal, and dates to the 20th century. Carved wood figures are shaped from a single block with chisels and gouges, and a base often provides stability for the standing form. Seen straight on, a tall, smooth figure with a rectangular face, wide toothy grin and a nose line down the center. Both hands rest together at the waist, and the body narrows to a rounded foot. The surface is dark, with pale chalky spots. It is 4.5 inches wide, 4.5 deep and 18.5 high.

One grin, held for a very long time.