Mid Century Thai Temple Charcoal Rubbing On Rice Paper Appraisal

Mid-Century Thai Temple Charcoal Rubbing on Rice Paper

A vintage decorative Thai temple rubbing depicting a scene with multiple celestial or mythological figures (yakshas) in a kneeling, respectful posture. The piece is executed in a monochromatic charcoal or graphite medium on a fibrous, cream-colored rice paper substrate. The figures are rendered in a traditional Siamese style, characterized by elaborate, tiered headdresses, intricate ornamental garments, and stylized facial features. The rubbing technique captures the relief textures from stone carvings, likely from a temple such as Wat Pho in Bangkok. The artwork is housed in a simple, gold-toned metallic or wooden frame that suggests a mid-20th-century origin, approximately 1960s to 1970s, which was the peak period for these rubbings as tourist souvenirs. Regarding condition, the paper shows visible yellowing and localized staining indicative of age and potential light exposure. There are minor undulations in the paper surface. The frame exhibits slight surface wear and a mild patina. The composition includes four primary figures and stylized foliage in the upper right, demonstrating a rhythmic and symmetrical aesthetic typical of Thai bas-relief art.