Japan Wood carving Praying Meditating Shy Man Sumo Wrestler Yogi Mid Century

Description

Japan Wood carving Praying Meditating Shy Man Sumo Wrestler Yogi Mid Century.
Wood Sculpture of Javanese Yogi Man, "Orang Malu"
Approximately 2.5” tall, wide & deep
This unique suar wood sculpture of a yogi from is called Orang Malu, which translates to "shy man". The figure is from a Javanese legend about a yogi who was ashamed of all the pain and suffering in the world. He chose a life of meditation in this unusual position to take away the grief and sorrow from mankind. Within the pose, if you view it from the front, you will see a smiling face. When viewed from the back, the figure has the appearance of a human heart; source of life and energy. From the side, the folded arms take the shape of a fetus; a symbol of new life and purity. It is believed that the figure is a source of strength to all those who rub his back.