Description
Here there be monsters…
A huge and wonderfully sculptural 19th Century Keralan boat prow.
Skilfully carved from solid tropical hardwood, it’s extremely heavy, its tactile surfaces smoothed and textured from a life on the river, and now resembling a giant ammonite fossil, a weathered elephant trunk, or perhaps a sea serpent’s tail…
Timber and metal repairs fill and bridge its ancient scars, time and tide shaping them to merge almost seamlessly with their wise old host.
Smaller in size than the famous Kerala snake boats (Chundan vallam), the Churulan Vallam had these distinctive scroll-like carvings at both the prow and stern.
They were prized for their ability to manoeuvre tightly in the rivers and backwaters of Kerala and could hold around 40 synchronised paddlers, crouched inside and propelling the boat rhythmically to the chant of traditional songs.
So a truly mysterious piece indeed with a real presence and magnetic charisma… and surely the ultimate conversation starter!
H67cm x W70cm x D16cm, approx weight 20kg
Original clean and unrestored condition – the wood is seasoned and weathered, extremely hard and with no loose parts.
Fully insured UK mainland delivery included in the price, and please get in touch to arrange a viewing in London SE24.
