Longxing Temple Great Compassion Pavilion: Warriors

CHINA, Hebei, Shijiazhuang; Northern Song dynasty

There are three warrior guardians carved on the lotus throne beneath the Thousand-Armed Avalokitesvara, who is the main focus of the Great Compassion Pavilion at Longxing Temple. The burly figures are located at the corners of the throne and are seemingly forced on one knee, bowed beneath the throne’s weight. The eyes bulge and the mouths are set with the effort as the warriors brace themselves with hands on knee and thigh. A similar figure in the center is on both knees and with hands on the thighs, taking the weight fully on his back.