Fine antique Yao painting YA191
Fragmentary ceremonial painting of exceptional quality and age, likely commissioned for a high priest.
It may depict the «Ancestors,» guardians and transmitters of Yao Taoist beliefs, or possibly the lower section of Tai Wai, the High Constable. But without the complete composition, precise identification remains uncertain. The framed painting YA192, also fragmentary, likely belongs to the same high-quality set.
From one of the Yao groups of Northern Laos or Southern China.
For more information on the Yao people, see this wiki page or this this detailed page.
Circa mid-18th century.
Frame: 66.5 cm high × 51.5 cm wide.