Mid 20th Century Hand-Carved Wood Boat Prow from India with Fleur-de-Lis Accents

Description

A South Indian (Kerala) wooden boat prow from the mid-20th century. This exquisite example of a hand-carved boat prow from … more A South Indian (Kerala) wooden boat prow from the mid-20th century. This exquisite example of a hand-carved boat prow from Kerala features a steeply pointed tip, with a tightly curled volute at its upper base area. There is wonderful incised carving and medallions along the sides and top. This piece is embellished with cross and vining fleur-de-lis accents at its top and sides, which have a beautiful salt water patina. These raised prows often decorated the boats of the Kerala, including the 100 ft long snake boats, or 'chundanvallams' as they are locally known. This midcentury Kerala boat prow, which once elegantly traversed the waters of South India, will make a splendid decorative, as well as conversational piece of art for your home. less