Tang Marble Bust of Lokapala

This is a marble bust of a Buddhist guardian deity Lokapala, a heavenly warrior who protects Buddhist doctrines. The figure has a wrathful face, wearing elaborate helmet and armor, the shoulder guards protecting his broad shoulders. Regrettably, its missing arms and weapon has deprived us the opportunity to identify it precisely since essential iconographic features are absent.
The lokapalas are protectors of Buddhist doctrines. Wielding the power to subdue evil and demons, they maintain a wrathful outlook to showcase their might. The most prominent ones are the four celestial guardians of the four directions.

This sculpture is coherent with the typical Tang style, particularly when compared to their Sancai and terracotta forms. It is possible that the sculpture was designated to guard an entrance of an important ritual site. The carving is nicely executed, showcasing extraordinary craftsmanship. – (HK.2023)