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A Wood Sculpture Of Bishamonten ( Vaisravana ) — HEIAN PERIOD (11TH CENTURY)

A Wood Sculpture Of Bishamonten ( Vaisravana )

HEIAN PERIOD (11TH CENTURY)

This wood sculpture depicts Bishamonten (Vaisravana), one of the Four Heavenly Kings in Buddhist iconography, characterized by his protective stance and ornate armor typical of Heian period religious art. Carved during the 11th century, the work exemplifies the refined sculptural techniques of the period, showcasing meticulous attention to drapery, facial features, and symbolic attributes. As a guardian deity associated with wealth and prosperity, Bishamonten's imposing figure would have served both a spiritual and devotional function in a Buddhist temple setting.

🔨 Auction Lot

Japanese and Korean Art

March 24, 2026

Estimate: $8,000$12,000

Lot 29

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About this work

A Wood Sculpture Of Bishamonten ( Vaisravana ), HEIAN PERIOD (11TH CENTURY)

This wood sculpture depicts Bishamonten (Vaisravana), one of the Four Heavenly Kings in Buddhist iconography, characterized by his protective stance and ornate armor typical of Heian period religious art. Carved during the 11th century, the work exemplifies the refined sculptural techniques of the period, showcasing meticulous attention to drapery, facial features, and symbolic attributes. As a guardian deity associated with wealth and prosperity, Bishamonten's imposing figure would have served both a spiritual and devotional function in a Buddhist temple setting.

Seen at
Christie's, London, United Kingdom

Related themes

Religious Art, Vaisravana, Spiritual reverence, East Asian Aesthetics, Japanese Artist, Carved Wood, Buddhist deity, Wood Sculpture, Heian Period, 11th Century