"Virudhaka - Heavenly King, Polychrome Wood, China / Vietnam, 18th / 19th Century."
This polychrome wooden sculpture represents one of the four celestial kings - Virudhaka. He is the traditional guardian of the South and was placed on this side of the Buddhist temple world. His name means "he who leads to growth, he who enlarges" and is a symbol of spiritual development. Height 75 cm, width 40 cm, depth 21 cm. South China or Vietnam, 18th / 19th century. Condition as seen in photographs, relatively good, there are minor polychrome damage and loss, in his right hand Virudhaka probably held a sword or spear.