Antique Hand-Carved "Yali" from Southern India (c. mid-to-late 19th Century)

This antique hand-carved wooden "Yali" statue from India was probably part of an architectural structure, and has the wear/age markers to prove it!

Yali carvings, particularly in Hindu temples, were primarily used as protectors & guardians of the sacred space. They also served as divine vehicles and architectural features, often appearing on pillars and entryway

In the Indian culture, the Yali is said to be a guardian creature with the head and body of a lion, the trunk and tusks of an elephant, and sometimes equine features. This Yali is raised while standing on its hind legs, the tail curled to the side, a smaller elephant underneath its belly. 

DIMENSIONS: 14" H x 6" L x 3" W

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