Guardian King of the North (Bishamonten)
1185–1333
- Medium
- wood with gold polychromy
- Dimensions
- Overall: 76.8 x 28.6 cm (30 1/4 x 11 1/4 in.); Base: 5.2 cm (2 1/16 in.)
- Genre
- Sculpture
- Museum
- Cleveland Museum of Art
Styles
Tags
Japan, Kamakura period (1185–1333)
About
In Buddhism, Bishamonten is one of four kings who protect the cardinal directions. He stands with a stupa symbolizing the Buddhist teachings and relics of the Buddha in the palm of his left hand, and a spear to foil the enemies of Buddhism in his right. He crushes a demon beneath his feet.