Tang dynasty AD618-907

Sancai figure of a Lokapala, Guardian King

Tang dynasty AD618-907

Sancai figure of a Lokapala, Guardian King

This enormous tri-color Virüdhaka once served as a tomb guardian used to ward off evil. 
 
On the head of the heavenly king is a bird with wings as if about to fly. The figure's eyebrows are knitted and eyes bulging, one hand being placed at the waist while the other in fist is held aloft. The right leg stands straight and the left slightly bends as he steps on a reclining ox. The sculpture, covered mainly with bright green, brown, and white glaze colors, was donated by the wife of former Japanese Prime Minister Eisaku Sato.
 
0%