Statue
40-35-2
Location: On Display in the Asia Galleries
From: China | Shanxi | Tianlongshan (uncertain)
Curatorial Section: Asian
Object Number | 40-35-2 |
Current Location | Asia Galleries - On Display |
Culture | Chinese |
Provenience | China | Shanxi | Tianlongshan (uncertain) |
Period | Tang Dynasty |
Date Made | 700 - 750 CE |
Section | Asian |
Materials | Limestone | Gesso | Paint | Gilding |
Technique | Carved | Gesso | Painted | Gilded |
Iconography | Kubera | Duowen Tian | Sword |
Description | Coarse light grey limestone carved statue of Kubera or Duowen Tian (Chinese), the Guardian King of the North. This lokapala, or celestial guardian king is associated with one of the four directions and wears the traditional leather and quilted uniform of a Tang warrior. He is thought to represent the Guardian of the North. The surface of the statue has traces of green, red and black painted and gilded gesso. The low base has holes in the back for attachment to the floor or wall. This statue was attributed to Tianlongshan when it was acquired but it is not certain if it came from that cave complex. |
Credit Line | Exchange with Yamanaka & Company, 1940 |
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