An
firm, unyielding power inhabits this ancient guardian figure.
The dark bronze is carved and cut with hardness and depth
in a superb casting rich with clearly defined symbols and
details. As the regalia is not found after the end of the
Ming Dynasty, and the casting is heavy and deep as in earlier
periods, the time frame of this work is decidedly early Ming
at the latest.
Ferocity
is expressed in the stolid figure, the face drawn into a threatening
grimace with heavy brows and broad cheeks, the lips pressed
together above a pugnacious chin, right arm pulled back in
a tight fist. His flaming crown is fronted by an image of
Amitabha Buddha. He is wearing elaborate armor of the type
depicted as early as Tang dynasty. The armor on his forearms
bears four petaled lotuses, which represent the earth chakra
from which his power derives. The armor on his upper body
is comprised of sharp curved plates held by a cord that bears
a demon-reflecting mirror. From the mirror descend ropes and
fastenings which tie over a belted animal skin apron which
may represent a makara, a fabulous animal with the tail of
a fish. On his shoulders are monster heads with multiple rows
of sharp teeth and fringed beards. A scarf around the guardian’s
neck is tied in a bow in the front. (The scarf motif as part
of warrior dress goes back to ancient China.) The lower armor
has a rocklike density and is graced on either side by cords
ornamented with roundels and fleur de lis styled lotuses.
Flowing trousers with studded edges drape over the patterned
boots. The firmly planted stance and rigid posture is complemented
and enlivened by the surface detail surrounded by flying scarves
with spiraling ends and cords.
