East Asia, China, Tang Dynasty, ca. 618 to 906 CE. This mold-formed pottery guardian figure, known as a lokapala, features a robust physique standing atop a grotesque demon. The ancient deity shifts his weight to his left leg, both hands balled into fists, as though brandishing a weapon - a dynamic pose symbolizing strength and protection. He wears an intricate suit of armor, topped with a helmet in the form of a peacock or phoenix, the bird displaying magnificent fanned wings and tail. Lokapala figures were commonly placed in temples and tombs to safeguard the space from malevolent spirits and to embody the virtues of loyalty and courage. Size: 9.5" L x 5" W x 25.5" H (24.1 cm x 12.7 cm x 64.8 cm)
Provenance: private Rochester, Michigan, USA collection
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Condition
Repaired, bird head and tail reattached with visible break lines. Chips and nicks to the high pointed areas. Heavy mineral and earthen encrustations on the surface. Good remains of painted pigments.