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The Buddhist guardian king Virudhaka
The Buddhist guardian king Virudhaka

The Buddhist guardian king Virudhaka

Place of OriginTsang, Tibet
Date1995
MaterialsColors on unfired clay
DimensionsH. 18 1/2 in x W. 11 in x D. 5 in, H. 47.0 cm x W. 27.9 cm x D. 12.7 cm
Credit LineGift of Thomas Murray in honor of Glenn and Joan Vinson
Object numberF2013.56.14
DepartmentHimalayan Art
ClassificationsDecorative Arts
On View
On view
LocationGallery 12
More Information
Virudhaka, whose name means “the increaser,” is the guardian of the south. The sword he carries protects the southern direction as well as the Buddhist religion. This guardian king is the ruler of the element air as well as sovereign of the kumbandhas or pot-bellied gnomes.