One of a Pair of Guardian Figures (Zuishin), c. 1560-1625. Japan, Muromachi period (1392-1573) to Edo period (1615-1858). Japanese cypress (hinoki) with traces of color; crystal; x cm (26 15/16 x 28 1/8 in.); x cm (27 5/8 x 27 3/4 in.). Sculptors carved these two figures to look like members of the guard who protected the Japanese aristocracy in the 10th to 12th centuries. The pair belong in the roofed gate of a Shinto shrine. Their role was to embody the divine protectors of the deities, or kami, residing at the shrine. Their inset crystal eyes make them appear vigilant.

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Size: 3198px × 3400px
Photo credit: © CMA/BOT / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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