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–)
Accession Number
1972.158.1
Medium
chestnut and cypress
Dimensions
Overall: 167.9 cm (66 1/8 in.)
Classification
Sculpture
Credit Line
Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund