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Pair of Japanese kakejiku 掛け軸 (hanging scrolls) depicting Niô guardians 仁王

About the Item

Pair of impressive, antique kakejiku (hanging scrolls) showcasing the awe-inspiring Niô guardians, also referred to as heavenly kings. Each painting captures one of the two guardians: Agyô with an open mouth and Ungyô with a closed mouth. The intricate details of their muscular bodies, flowing robes, and dynamic garlands are skilfully depicted. Adorned with necklaces, bracelets, and armlets, they exude a powerful presence. One of the guardians holds a Buddhist tuning fork, while the other wields a thunderbolt sceptre. Their fierce and almost grotesque expressions are characterized by large bulging eyes and furrowed brows, adding to their formidable aura. These expressive and polychrome paintings are finely rendered on silk using ink and watercolours. They are presented as hanging scrolls with silk brocade frames. The jikusaki (rod ends) are made of red lacquered wood with an engraved scrolling foliage design. Dimensions, each: Image: Height 50.19 inch/127.5 cm, Width 29.76 inch/75.6 cm. Entire scroll: Image: Height 75.59 inch/192 cm, Width 36.02 inch/91.5 cm. With an old black-lacquered wood tomobako (storage box). Niô, also known as Kongôrikishi, are formidable and muscular guardians commonly found at the entrances of Buddhist temples in East Asian Buddhism. These guardians are depicted as intimidating statues resembling powerful wrestler-like beings. They are considered manifestations of the dharmapala Vajrapani, the oldest and most potent deity in the Mahayana Buddhist pantheon. According to Japanese tradition, the Niô accompanied Gautama Buddha to ensure his protection. While Buddhism is generally characterized by non-violence, the stories of dharmapalas like the Niô justified the use of force to safeguard cherished beliefs and values from evil. The Niô are also associated with Mahasthamaprapta, the bodhisattva of power in Pure Land Buddhism, and Vajrasattva in Tibetan Buddhism. As a pair of figures, they often stand under a separate temple entrance gate known as Niomon in Japan. The right statue, known as Misshaku Kongô or Agyô, has an open mouth, while the left statue, Naraen Kongô or Ungyô, has a closed mouth. Symbolically, they represent the concept of "everything" akin to the notion of Alpha and Omega in Christianity. When shipped we will add a certificate of authenticity. Price including insured shipping.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 75.6 in (192 cm)Width: 36.03 in (91.5 cm)Depth: 0.04 in (1 mm)
  • Sold As:
    Set of 2
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Around 1700, Edo period
  • Condition:
    Repaired. Wear consistent with age and use. Considering their age, they are in overall good condition, with some signs of wear, soiling, creasing, and a few minuscule losses. The mountings also exhibit some wear and small tears, and small restoration. Please look at the photos for a condition.
  • Seller Location:
    Amsterdam, NL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 813831stDibs: LU7165234248942

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