Xi’an: Heavenly Kings

CHINA, Shaanxi, Xi’an; Tang dynasty

These Heavenly Kings were unearthed from Chang’an University, Xi’an, in 1983. The pair is symmetrically sculpted and probably served as door guardians to a Buddhist temple. The paints on both statues have peeled off. Both figures are clad in leather armor with metal ornamentation. One king wears a helmet while the other has his hair tied in a highly ornamental topknot. The broad faces are set in ferocious expressions with knitted eyebrows and bristling mustaches. The features suggest they were modeled on the ethnic minority of Central Asia. Capes cover their shoulders, and animal heads with gaping mouths decorate their arms. Both figures pose with one hand resting on the waist and the other arm bent. They are threatening as they stand among rocks, crushing evil spirits beneath their feet.