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Chinese
Qing Bronze Buddha Statue
Lokapala
Guardian of
Four Direction
Circa: late
19th -early 20th century
H
9.5 in.(24cm), W 4.5 in.(11.5cm), D 3 in.(7.5cm)
Condition: Hand forged solid bronze The
four Lokapala are the guardians of the four directions, who are often seen as
gigantic figures placed at the entrance to a temple complex, dressed in armor
and standing upon a base of mountains that symbolizes the fourth terrace of Mount
Meru at the center of the universe. From this vantage point they listen and watch
for evil spirits from which they protect the world. Of the four guardians this
bronze appears to be the Guardian of the North, Vaisravana, who holds a pearl,
and often has a snake or other beast which destroys enemies at his behest. He
is seen here with a heart mirror and flying scarves that flare from above his
head to the flame-like coils at this feet. The statue is covered with a multitude
of decorations, all hand chased, front and back. The carving of the head is crisp
and full of confidence, in accord with the sense of wild movement that distinguishes
this small bronze. There appears to have been some polishing on the surfaces;
the face in particular is free of heavy oxidation. The bronze is thickly cast
and heavy for its size. Although it may have been cleaned not long ago, the underside
exposes thick reddish oxidation which confirming its age. Private Collection |
