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Large 18th Century Japanese Wooden Nio Guardian Figure

$9,000
£6,872.23
€7,824.28
CA$12,637.42
A$13,815.17
CHF 7,308.85
MX$165,320.77
NOK 92,994.61
SEK 85,127.16
DKK 58,442.52

About the Item

A dramatic antique (18th century) Japanese Nio guardian figure, a type of fierce-looking and imposing muscular guardian of the Buddha commonly found at the entrance of many Buddhist temples in East Asia. Nio figures are typically displayed in pairs, with one figure having an open mouth (as seen here, known as Agyo in Japanese) and the other a closed mouth (Un in Japanese). The open-mouthed figure is said to represent the sound "Ah," symbolizing the beginning of all things, while the closed-mouthed figure represents "Un," symbolizing the end. These figures are manifestations of the bodhisattva Vajrapāṇi and are believed to ward off evil spirits and danger from the temple grounds. The statue is hand carved and made of wood and was originally painted, though the color has faded due to weathering, a common occurrence as these were typically placed outdoors.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 32 in (81.28 cm)Width: 18 in (45.72 cm)Depth: 12 in (30.48 cm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Wood,Hand-Carved
  • Place of Origin:
    Japan
  • Period:
    Late 18th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    c. 1780
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. As shown, part of one arm is missing.
  • Seller Location:
    New York, NY
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: A-40641stDibs: LU10546247454242

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