Longmen Grotto 1280: Heavenly King and Warrior

CHINA, Henan, Luoyang; Tang dynasty

These statues, both with round nimbuses, are located along the north wall. The Heavenly King on the left has a round face, wrathful eyes, and pursed lips. He wears a crown, earrings, and ornate armor. The right hand is raised to the shoulder and supports a stupa, while the left rests on the waist. A demon lies on the ground under the Heavenly King’s boots.
The warrior stands in the tribhanga posture and appears fierce, with high cheekbones and a protruding brow over round, glaring eyes. The mouth is open as if in laughter and the hair is tied in a topknot. A crown and other adornments embellish the warrior. The upper body is broad and muscular. A stole drapes around the arms and encircles the body. The right hand rests on the hip while the left is positioned palm out before the chest. The figure wears a dhoti and is barefoot. This pair of sculptures was intended to convey the might of the Dharma protectors.