SAM Art: A Guardian King

This Buddhist statue represents the Guardian King of the North, the most powerful of the so-called Four Heavenly Kings, charged with protecting the cardinal directions. Originally Hindu deities, the guardian kings were adopted into Indian Buddhism and then transmitted to China and beyond. Characteristically dressed in military armor and holding aloft a stupa, this particular manifestation of Bishamonten is distinguished by the presence of the earth goddess Jiten, who supports the guardian on her shoulders.

Tobatsu Bishamonten (Vaisravana), late 10th century, Japanese (Heian period, 794 – 1185), wood, gesso, and polychrome, 48 1/2 x 21 x 14 in., Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection, 48.179. Currently on view in A Fuller View of China, Japan and Korea, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Volunteer Park.

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