Featured Ivory Figurine

Hi,
I recently discovered this ivory Figurine while cleaning out a house. Does anyone have any information on this type of Figurine or know of what they are worth??
Thanks

 

I'm not entirely sure - but it looks more like bone to me than ivory, however; I'm sure others who know more will be along to chime in and correct me if I'm wrong. If I had to guess (again - I really don't know) - I'd guess it was Indonesian. As to value - I have no clue

 

Need a close up of the grain.
Looks like bone to me too.

 

It's interesting, but I'm not sure it's ivory. I'm seeing dark flecks that would indicate bone.

 

Looks like bone.

 

Thanks for the info guys. I don’t know anything about this type of thing so interesting to know. Here’s a close up for you.

 

Yeah, definitely bone. You can see all the pitting and lines where flesh and muscle used to connect to it. Marrow-flecks and all that stuff.

Ivory wouldn't have that stuff. It'd be all smooth and clean.

 

It is hollow in the middle because it is a bone and the marrow was removed.

 

Yes, cow bone, a souvenir from Bali, Indonesia.
It is a Balinese food chain, so to speak. The beef goes to the hotels and restaurants to feed the tourists, the Balinese carve the remaining bones, the tourists buy the carvings, which generates an income (food) for the carvers.

The central figure is Hindu Goddess Saraswati. She is the Goddess of music, and her music causes the vibrations that create the universe. Her mount is a swan, in this carving she is sitting on her swan to travel to wherever she is needed.
Saraswati is very popular on Bali, and sometimes merges with the ancient Indonesian rice Goddess Dewi Sri. Both names are used for these carvings.
She should be depicted at least partially dressed, in this case the carver probably wanted to attract more business. But nicely done.
This is a more traditional one:


And here is one on Etsy. Not as old as they claim, and the carving on yours, though not as intricate, is better quality.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/526260...rch_query=bali+bone+carving&ref=sr_gallery_44

 

As always - your insight is invaluable! Was hoping you'd chime in

 

Thanks, aaron. I don't know what to say really.

 

Welcome!
Please always use the FULL IMAGE button as some others have done for you.

 

AJ is blushing! i can see it from here.......almost