Sutasoma

measurements: 35x10,5x8,5 cm
weight: 1080 gr
signed by I Wayan Tuges, Guwang, Bali
made in early 1980s

I bought this figurine from a German Lady, her father once brought it here from a trip to Bali. Some time ago he died and this high quailty woodcarving was sold out of his estate. Carver I Wayan Tuges really had a sense for proportions, everything is done very accurately. The wood isn't treated with lacquer, it is that dark by nature. When you touch the figurine you may think it's made out of synthetic material because the wood's surface is so rock hard and smooth.
Usually, I don't prefer figurines made of blackish wood. They look awesome first, but you simply cannot see much carving details from far away. Especially when the light is low the look transforms into a black whole in your shelf. That really is a big downer. See my Kumbhakarna statue, it's the same here.
This figurine was offered to be in a perfect condition. I was very sad when I recognized a tiny missing part on the back. The damage happened to the seller by accident. It is so hard to get a figurine without any damage… But I love this beautiful piece of art anyhow.