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Wisdom King Fudo (Fudo Myo-o), Heian period (794–1185), 12th century
Kyoto, Japan
Joined-woodblock construction with pigments; H. 63 4/5 in. (162 cm)
The Harry G. C. Packard Collection of Asian Art, Gift of Harry G. C. Packard, and Purchase, Fletcher, Rogers, Harris Brisbane Dick, and Louis V. Bell Funds, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, and The Annenberg Fund Inc. Gift, 1975 (1975.268.163)

One of the Five Wisdom Kings, Fudo Myo-o is filled with wrath against evil. Serving Dainichi Nyorai, he holds poised his sword and noose to contain anything that might harm a believer. Size and fearsome physical attributes, including fangs and a half-closed eye that turns inward, command respect, as does the exaggerated length of his limbs. Like most Heian pieces, this sculpture is shallowly carved, emphasizing the figure's volume. The considerable heft of the shoulders and back planted firmly on stiffened legs is appropriate for a deity whose name means "The Immoveable."


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    Wisdom King Fudo (Fudo Myo-o), Heian period (794–1185), 12th century
    Kyoto, Japan
    Joined-woodblock construction with pigments; H. 63 4/5 in. (162 cm)
    The Harry G. C. Packard Collection of Asian Art, Gift of Harry G. C. Packard, and Purchase, Fletcher, Rogers, Harris Brisbane Dick, and Louis V. Bell Funds, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, and The Annenberg Fund Inc. Gift, 1975 (1975.268.163)