Woodblock of Bishamonten, c. 1780
Unknown Japaneseexpand_more
Woodexpand_more
Gift of Miss Ruth L. Sikes, in memory of her brother, Bruce Sikesexpand_more 68.15.2
Not on Viewexpand_more
Varuna is one of several Hindu gods adopted into Buddhism to serve as guardians of the faith. Associated with water, Varuna is usually shown with a crown of seven water serpents. In this case, he also holds a bowl from which emerges a snake.
As an expression of religious piety, well-to-do Buddhists commissioned elaborately painted images using rare and precious materials. Ordinary people, however, purchased inexpensive images mass produced by Buddhist monks from carved woodblocks. Such images were often tightly folded and tucked into small, fabric pouches to be carried as a protective amulets.
Details
- Title
- Woodblock of Bishamonten
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 68.15.2
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
Does something look wrong with this image? Let us know
Zoom in on the left to the detail you'd like to save. Click 'Save detail' and wait until the image updates. Right click the image to 'save image as' or copy link, or click the image to open in a new tab.