Namikiri Fudō Myōō
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.This sculpture of the protective deity Fudō Myōō, the “Immovable Wisdom King,” dramatically captures his status as a wrathful deity. Venerated for his ability to prevent calamity, Fudō is caught in action, with his right leg raised. He carries a sword and lasso, prepared to destroy any negative forces that threaten Buddhist teachings and the faithful. This particular form of Fudō may represent Namikiri, or Wave-Cutting, Fudō, which relates to his safeguarding of the monk Kūkai (774–835).
Artwork Details
- 波切不動明王像
- Title: Namikiri Fudō Myōō
- Period: Kamakura period (1185–1333)
- Date: 13th century
- Culture: Japan
- Medium: Wood with lacquer, color, gold, and inlaid crystal
- Dimensions: H. 16 3/4 in. (42.5 cm)
- Classification: Sculpture
- Credit Line: Lent by John C. Weber Collection
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art