Nude Woman Pleasuring Herself
40 x 20 cm (16 x 8 inches)

An interesting and expressive carving of a seated nude Balinese woman with one hand on her breast and the other on her genitals.  Her full breasts and slightly distended belly, coupled with the squatting position, suggests she may be preparing to give birth...but more likely this is an image of a curvaceous young woman simply pleasuring herself.

Whatever the interpretation, it’s a fine carving of a private moment...quietly sensual, mildly erotic, but never crude.  The skyward tilt of her head is particularly nice, and unusual, and makes the sculpture best views from slightly above.

Nicely carved in local suar wood, with a good grain and a polished finish, it dates from the 80s, and is in excellent condition.