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Wanfo Temple: Heavenly King
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Wanfo Temple: Heavenly King
CHINA, Sichuan, Chengdu; Tang dynasty (618–907); Sandstone; H: 107 cm; National Museum of China, Beijing
This Heavenly King statue was excavated from the site of Wanfo Temple. The figure is dressed like a Chinese general and wears a crown-like helmet. The face has a full beard, staring eyes and an agape mouth. A cape is tied over a padded surcoat that is belted in the middle. Wide sleeves hang down the arms but reveal damaged wrists. Since Heavenly Kings are Dharma protectors, they are usually depicted with a fierce countenance and a foreboding demeanor, but secularization of Buddhism during the Tang dynasty (618–907) has resulted in a figure that is filled with grace and dignity. |
