A large gilt and painted "Tianwang" stone warrior, Tang dynasty (618 - 906)

A large gilt and painted "Tianwang" stone warrior, Tang dynasty (618 - 906)

A stone sculpture depicting the figure of a guardian dressed in armor and with traces of polychrome. These guardians are known as "Tiānwáng" (天王) and are charged with protecting sacred places in the manner of "Celestial Kings", who inhabited mountain peaks. This type of sculpture was placed in pairs, one pronouncing the "a" (open mouth) and the other the sound "um" (closed mouth), and placed at the sides of the entrances of tombs, sanctuaries and temples, with the intention of protecting their interior. Because of this, they were depicted in vigorous postures, ready to face danger, with exaggerated muscular structure and menacing expressions. The marble sculpture was carved using a realistic approach, in keeping with the terracotta figures produced in the Tang period. 

The figure's face features puffy cheeks, a pronounced chin, exaggerated facial features, a wrathful expression, large Buddha-like ears and full lips. His hair is tied back with a high headdress and a kind of medal on his forehead. He wears multi-layered armor with the pieces connected by straps, a cord under his chest and a dog's head in half-relief on his belly. The shoulders are covered with animal-shaped epaulets and the chest with two pieces of armor decorated with concentric circles and flower-shaped medallions in relief. On the chest is another medallion and below it is a curled cloud shape. Beneath the armor is a tunic of which the collar and sleeves are visible. The polychromy is preserved in some parts that are evident in red and gold.

This type of sculpture evolved in China with the advent of tantric beliefs in the 8th century but suffered serious losses due to anti-Buddhist repression. The torso and head are preserved in good condition, although the forearms and the lower half of the body are missing. The missing arms lead us to imagine him holding weapons or showing his fists.

Size: 52 x 20 x 35 cm approx. Weight: 33.40 kg

Provenance: European private collection.