Guardian Figure: Nio

Description

Paired with a closed-mouth Nio, this figure originally protected the entrance of a Buddhist temple in Japan. Sculpted in an expressive, dynamic style, this figure was created using several pieces of wood carefully joined together. This imposing figure was originally painted, though is substantially faded due to weathering. The carved wooden bases for the two guardian figures on display are modern replacements.

Provenance

Buddhist temple in Shiga Prefecture, Japan; (Yanagi Fine Art Shop, Kyoto, Japan, sold to the Cleveland Museum of Art) (?–1972); The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (1972–)

Guardian Figure: Nio

[]

1200s

Accession Number

1972.158.1

Medium

chestnut and cypress

Dimensions

Overall: 167.9 cm (66 1/8 in.)

Classification

Sculpture

Museum

The Cleveland Museum of Art

Cleveland, United States

Credit Line

Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund