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Cheng-Hsiung Chen
Pair of Vajra Guardians, Contemporary Bronze Buddhist Sculpture

2006

$156,900
£119,963.52
€137,318.37
CA$221,247.89
A$240,853.19
CHF 128,573.41
MX$2,907,650.40
NOK 1,616,650.90
SEK 1,502,570.70
DKK 1,025,569.11

About the Item

At temple gates, Vajra Guardians, or Nio, stand as protectors of the Dharma and guardians of sentient beings. Their fierce forms are not meant to instill fear but to inspire safety, stability, and compassion. In this pair of bronze sculptures, Chen Cheng-Hsiung carves with bold, angular strokes, giving the figures powerful muscles and a presence immovable like mountains. Instead of traditional weapons, their gestures carry symbolic meaning. One raises five fingers, representing the Five Elements of earth, water, fire, wind, and space, linked to the open-mouthed “A,” the beginning of all phenomena. The other shows three fingers, symbolizing the Three Jewels of Buddhism and the three stages of life, paired with the closed-mouthed “Hum,” signifying unity and completion. Chen transforms them into approachable protectors whose strength radiates warmth and reassurance. In addition to being one of the artist’s signature works, this piece was also chosen as the cover for an important collection of his works. Sold as a pair Dimensions: H108 × W56 × D50 cm / H42.5 × W22 × D19.7 in (each) Weight: 92 kg / 203 lbs 81.4 kg / 179.5 lbs Edition: 8/12
  • Creator:
    Cheng-Hsiung Chen (1942, Taiwanese)
  • Creation Year:
    2006
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 42.52 in (108 cm)Width: 22.05 in (56 cm)Depth: 19.69 in (50 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Movement Style:
  • Period:
  • Condition:
  • Gallery Location:
    Taichung, TW
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU2900217048082

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