Varuna, Lord of Knowledge; Regent of the West

9th century

Not on view

The lokapalas stand in each of the four cardinal directions as protectors of both the Buddhist dharma (teachings) and the religious community. Texts speak of monasteries being constructed on grids symbolically marked with these deities, leaving the specific ritual function of these sculptures an open question.

Varuna, Lord of Knowledge, is Regent of the West. His broken left hand would have held a noose. His vehicle is a horse.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Varuna, Lord of Knowledge; Regent of the West
Period: Anuradhapura period
Date: 9th century
Culture: Sri Lanka
Medium: Bronze
Dimensions: H. 9 in. (22.9 cm); W. 3 3/4 in. (9.5 cm); D. 4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm)
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Gift of Guardian of the Flame Collection, 2004
Object Number: 2004.465
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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