Antique Burmese 'fenghuang' loom pulley from Burma (Myanmar), early 1900s

Description

Antique Burmese 'fenghuang' loom pulley from Burma (Myanmar), early 1900s. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail.
Beautiful old carved wood Burmese loom pulley in the form of stylized birds (called fenghuang), with smooth flowing lines and a very attractive patina. Likely c. 1940.
In the past, utilitarian objects in Burma (Myanmar) were often decorated with carved ornaments sculpted from local woods. These two pulleys were carved in the shape of the mythical bird of infinite grace, or fenghuang. The fenghuang was portrayed as a hybrid between a pheasant and a peacock. In Burma, it is an auspicious creature that provides a link between earth and heaven and sings delightful melodies relying on just five notes. It is often used as a motif in architectural and other designs in Southeast Asia.
This loom pulley has survived well and is without repairs. It comes on a custom-made stand and possesses a strong, dignified presence. Authentic old Burmese wood carving pieces like these are rare today, while copies have become common.
The pulley measures approximately 12 1/2 inches (high) x 6 1/2 inches (wide) x 3 inches (deep).
The pulley is in excellent condition overall, see pics for details.
From the Center for Burma Studies at Northern Illinois University: "Textile production in Burma dates back to AD 500-900. The local textile industry became a prominent part of Burmese culture. The development of the weaving loom not only allowed production of intricate fabrics but also gave artisans an additional space to introduce Burmese ornamentation. Loom pulleys proved to be an excellent source of inspiration because they were suspended in mid air in order to hold threads of cotton. Wealthy families often had elaborate loom pulleys made with decorative mythical creatures. These masterly-cast bronze pulleys were traditionally made in avian [bird-like] forms. The wheels of the pulley served as bases for mythical beings such as the hintha (a Brahmani duck), the kinnara (half-man and half-bird) and the bilu (mythical ogre)."