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Pair of Japanese Cast Bronze Figures of Niō, Meiji Period, Late 19th Century
About the Item
A well cast pair of Japanese mixed metal okimono figures of Buddhist guardians, known as Nio or Dharmapala, protectors of Buddhist faith, Meiji Period, Japan.
The smiling bronze guardian figures cast with a wonderful sense of power and motion. They stand upon raised platforms cast with a wood grain design. The muscular figures are dressed in loose and flowing dhoti, chests bare, scarves billowing outwards.
One has his mouth open, speaking the seed syllable "A", the other with his mouth closed, uttering the seed syllable "Un". Between the two, they encompass all of creation, the beginning and end, life and death (similar to the concept of the Alpha and Omega).
They wear the jewelry of bodhisattvas, including bracelets and anklets, their long hair tied up and held in place by a diadem. Each guardian holds one hand up grasping a half vajra. The Nio are accompanied by rats, often seen as a symbol of wealth and plenty.
A bell would originally have been attached to the half vajras, forming a candle holder. The bells now lost on both figures.
One figure with discoloration to the bronze in some areas. Please see photos for details.
- Dimensions:Height: 9 in (22.86 cm)Width: 4.5 in (11.43 cm)Depth: 4 in (10.16 cm)
- Sold As:Set of 2
- Style:Meiji (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:Bronze,Cast
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:circa 1880
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Minor fading. Missing the bell cups. One figure with some discoloration to the bronze, as seen in photos.
- Seller Location:Austin, TX
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU894713508002
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: Austin, TX
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 7 days of delivery.
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