Exceptionally large and imposing wooden temple guardian depicting Agyō

An exceptionally large and imposing wooden temple guardian depicting Agyō 阿形, one of the pair of Niō 仁王, also known as Kongōrikishi 金剛力士, the powerful protectors of Buddhist temples in Japan.

Niō figures traditionally stand on either side of the Niōmon, the entrance gate to a Buddhist temple, where their fierce expressions and muscular appearance are intended to ward off evil spirits and protect the sacred grounds.

This guardian represents Agyō, recognizable by his open mouth, pronouncing the syllable “a” — the first sound and symbolic beginning of all things. Together with his closed-mouthed counterpart Ungyō, whose final syllable “un” represents the end, the pair embodies the beginning and completion of all existence.

Carved with a powerful, dynamic presence, the figure stands in a wide and alert pose. His bare torso is strongly modelled with pronounced musculature and adorned with a necklace and floral ornaments. A flowing mo skirt is wrapped around the hips, while his expressive face, wild hair and raised left hand reinforce his formidable character. In his right hand he holds a large twisted vajra (kongōsho 金剛杵), an important Buddhist symbol associated with spiritual power and indestructibility.

Estimated to date from the Meiji period (late 19th century), the sculpture has an extraordinary height of 242 cm, giving it a commanding architectural presence. It originates from an unidentified temple in Japan; no further provenance is known.

The figure displays traces of many years of exposure to the elements. The wood shows substantial weathering and areas of deterioration, particularly around the feet, back of the torso and topknot. Much of the original polychromy has been lost, while remnants of black lacquer remain visible on areas of the skirt, hair and legs. Cracks, old repairs, exposed construction joins, losses and traces of weather damage are present throughout. Its condition, however, has now fully stabilized, with no active woodworm. Please refer to the photographs for a clear condition reference.

Despite its weathered condition, the sculpture remains structurally sturdy and retains an exceptionally powerful and monumental presence. Its aged surface and surviving traces of decoration give the piece a character that reflects its original life as a functional Buddhist temple guardian rather than a purely decorative sculpture.

With its exceptional scale and dramatic sculptural character, this Niō makes a remarkable statement piece for a spacious interior. It is particularly well suited to hotel lobbies, exhibition spaces, galleries, reception areas, conference centres or other large architectural settings, where its impressive proportions and richly weathered surface can be fully appreciated.

Dimensions
Height figure: 242 cm
Height stand: 11.5 cm
Width figure: 91 cm
Depth figure: 54 cm
Stand: 100 × 100 cm

Weight included stand: 162,5 kg.

The sculpture will be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Japanese Antique Store.

Due to its size, this statue is offered ExWorks only. Delivery within BENELUX/Paris upon consultation.